Endodontic instruments can be divided into four different categories. These categories are exploring, extirpating, enlarging (cleaning and shaping) and filling. Within these categories are many different types of tools and equipment that are used.

Exploring a tooth may seem really simple. Just looking at the exterior of the tooth, however when you are in a specific situation when you are looking for a pulp stones, dystrophic calcifications and the tooth has restorations which may alter the actual configuration of the teeth then you will need to use an endodontic explorer. This is used to locate orifices and also to remove calcification. When extirpating, then special endodontic instruments are needed as well. For example the barbed broach is an instrument used for extirpating, not enlarging an area. This special tool is made from a tapered round shaft. Then the shaft has lifted up portions that surround the shaft that are almost at an upright angle to the shaft. These elevated bards will engage the pulp tissue and remove it from the canal. This type of instrument must fit loosely into the canal. It is a very fragile instrument that can break easily and will not be able to be removed as freely and easily if it is too large. Use a k-file to clean or shape an area. It must be cleaned regularly during the use, because if it becomes filled or packed then it will not work properly. There are different sizes that re used for different areas and specialties. Other endodontic instruments include endodontic root canal pluggers and spreaders. These are sometimes available in stainless steel and or with silicone handles. Spreaders are used to compact filling material during lateral condensation.

The working length of endodontic instruments is important. When performing a root canal, all of the equipment utilized and approved today are standardized. These requirements have been determined by dental organizations. They are manufactured in numbers ranging for 6 to 150. They are made in various lengths although the length of the blade with the cutting flutes is the same. They are also characterized by color as well. Irrigating syringes and solutions are also important. The removal of the debris that is created during the process needs to be removed to provide essential therapy. Using an irrigant will make this process easier. Various sizes of syringes are used to administer the solution. They are disposable syringes with a needle. The needle is bent at an angle so that is easy to insert the irrigation needed for the canal.

Sterilization of the endodontic instruments is very important for various reasons. Many of the tools that are used are very fragile and delicate because of the small areas that they are required to fit into. So it is very important to be extra careful when cleaning and to take extra caution when sterilizing them. The effectiveness of their usage depends on this. It is also extremely important to sterilize all tools and throw away those that are not reusable to  keep your patient’s health safe as well.