Reciprocal Reverse Rotation Endodontic File

Abstract

A single use, reciprocal reverse rotation, endodontic file includes a plurality of spaced apart helical flutes with spiraled lands therebetween. The lands have an edge with a positive cutting angle when the file is rotated in one direction and a scraping angle when rotated in the opposite direction. The file provides for sequential rotation of a selected angle in a forward direction followed by rotation of a slightly less angle in a reverse direction. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the flutes is concave polygonal-shaped at a proximal end of the file and square-shaped at the distal end. In another embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the flutes is convex arcuate-shaped, the lands lying normal to the central longitudinal axis of the file. The handle portion of the file may be configured for use in a rotary handpiece or for manual rotation.

1 . An endodontic file for cleaning and shaping a tooth root canal comprising:
 an elongated tapered metal file having a proximal end, a distal end, a handle portion, and “n” spaced apart helical flutes with spiraled lands therebetween;   each of said lands having an edge that has a more positive cutting angle when the file is rotated in one direction and a scraping angle when the file is rotated in an opposite direction;   said handle portion being configured for rotation in a handpiece, said handpiece selected from the group consisting of a manual handpiece and a rotary handpiece; and   said file being configured for sequential forwardly followed by rearwardly rotation, thereby requiring rotation only slightly more than 360°/n forwardly then rearwardly to clean and shape a tooth root canal.   
     
     
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