Rotary and reciprocating files get most of the attention in endodontics, but every root canal treatment also relies on hand instruments for access, obturation and handling small items.
Examination and access
- Endodontic explorer (DG-16) — a long, sharp, double-ended explorer for locating canal orifices.
- Long-shank excavators — remove pulp tissue and caries from the pulp chamber.
- Mouth mirror — preferably front-surface for a sharp view.
Obturation
Spreaders
Spreaders have long, tapered, pointed working ends. They are used in lateral condensation to create space for accessory gutta-percha cones.
Pluggers
Pluggers have flat ends and are used to condense warm or cold gutta-percha vertically. They come in several diameters to match canal size.
Heat carriers
Some hand instruments are heated to sear off excess gutta-percha and soften it for condensation.
Handling
- Endodontic locking pliers — college pliers with a lock and a groove to hold paper points and gutta-percha cones securely.
- Measuring gauge/ruler — to set working lengths on files and cones.
Isolation
Rubber dam is essential in endodontics. Include clamps, forceps, punch and frame on the endo tray or in a dedicated rubber dam kit.
A typical endo hand-instrument tray
- Mirror and DG-16 explorer
- Long-shank excavator
- Locking pliers
- Spreaders (two sizes)
- Pluggers (two or three sizes)
- Endo ruler
- Plastic filling instrument for temporary restoration
Care
Spreader and plugger tips are fine and can bend. Inspect them regularly and keep them in protected slots in the cassette.
Build an endodontic hand-instrument tray through the Aurix custom kits service.
