How Endodontic Instruments Are Classified?

How Endodontic Instruments Are Classified?

Classify endodontic instruments?

According to Function (by Grossman)

Instruments are divided into four groups.

1. Exploring Instruments

To locate the canal orifice or to assist in obtaining patency of the root canal

(i) Smooth barbed broach

(ii) DG-16 explorer.

2. Debriding Instruments

To extirpate the pulp and to remove debris and other foreign materials Barbed broach.

3. Shaping Instruments

To shape root canal apically and laterally

(i) Reamers

(ii) Files.

4. Obturating Instruments

To pack gutta-percha into root canal

(i) Plugger

(ii) Spreaders

(iii) Lentulo spirals.

Harty’s Classification

1. Instrument for access cavity preparation

(i) Basic instrument pack

(ii) Burs

(iii) Rubber dam.

2. Instruments for root canal preparation

(i) Hand instruments

(ii) Power assisted root canal instruments

(iii) Electronic canal measuring device

(iv) Measuring instruments, gauges and stands

(v) Instruments for retrieving broken instruments and posts.

3. Instruments for filling root canals

(i) Lateral condensation

(ii) Vertical condensation

(iii) Hybrid technique

(iv) Thermoplasticized gutta-percha.

4. Equipments for storing instruments

5. Sterilization of endodontic instruments

6. Equipments for improving visibility

Other classification of endodontic instruments are:

1. Instruments used for initial examination

2. Instruments used for diagnosis

3. Instruments used for isolation

4. Instruments used for access cavity preparation

5. Instruments used for working length determination

6. Instruments used for canal preparation

7. Instruments used for irrigation

8. Instruments used for obscuration

9. Instruments used for post space preparation

10. Instruments used for retrieval of broken instrument/post/gutta percha

11. Instruments used for endodontic surgery.