Flexo File ( endodontic instrument ) uses and safety tips

Flexo File ( endodontic instrument ) uses and safety tips

Design & Structure

Flexofiles are manufactured from triangular (note!) steel wire that is twisted to give the typical profile of a K-file. The angle between the long-axis and the cutting blade is bigger than in reamers, which is why preparation by flexofile is effective both in rotating motion and in filing motion (up and down movement)

The tip of the instrument is non-cutting (‘bat-tip’)which makes the flexofile well suited for the preparation of evenly curved canals without the risk of ledge formation

Sizes & Codes

Flexofiles come in sizes 15 – 40, all with a taper of 0.02. K-file design is identified by the square symbol on the handle.

Flexofiles can be best distinguished from normal K-files by the size code at the top of the instrument: in flexofiles the color of the number is the same as the color of the handle.

Recommended use

Flexofile is suited for both straight canals and slightly curved canals. The flexofile prepares dentin effectively both in filing motion (up and down) and when rotated. In slightly curved canals the recommended techniques are continuous rotation (lower picture) when the resistance is small and balanced force (upper picture) against greater resistance. Use of continuous rotation is limited as compared to reamers because of the screwing effect typical of K-files.

Safety tips

Flexofiles can be rotated (balanced force) only using moderate pressure. Use of force, particularly with smaller sized instruments, may result in distortion of the helical structure and ultimately in fracture. Every instrument should be checked for symmetry by rotating it against an even background before introducing it into the canal.

Tags: FlexoFile: Design & Structure, FlexoFile: Recommended use, FlexoFile: Safety tips, FlexoFile: Sizes & Codes

Category: Endodontics