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how many times can you safely reuse ProTaper NiTi files. Any tips from experience?
ProTaper files
- Thread starter shwan
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In school I was taught to max use them 5 times, but I would imagine that it depends on how many times you use a file in a canal and how many canals per tooth. In practice, I use mine max 3 times, but on average throw them away after the second case. Missing out on $800-1200 due to separation because you want to use a set of files one more time to save $50 is just plain stupid.
The reps will tell you to only use them once, but they want to sell you lots of files 🙂
Depends on the the tooth.
For example, maxillary central incisors with fairly wide and straight canals, you should be able to use at least 10 times.
For molar endo with small and calcified canals, you may not be able to use more than once.
You can extend its usage if you open up the canal more with hand files to like #25, then use peeso to open the canal wider so the files need to do less cutting.
For example, maxillary central incisors with fairly wide and straight canals, you should be able to use at least 10 times.
For molar endo with small and calcified canals, you may not be able to use more than once.
You can extend its usage if you open up the canal more with hand files to like #25, then use peeso to open the canal wider so the files need to do less cutting.
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We were also told 5 but like you said it varies. Were recommended use 'used' files on easy cases, hard ones better bust out real ones, its not worth screwing up over the file costs.
If your school is anything like mine, you should certainly have been forced to buy enough as a second year that you can do all your endo requirements with that first issue.
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Haha, luckily my school provided the files for patient use. For pre-clinic, they gave us like 2-3 packs of them. I think I still have them and used them on "practice" cases when I got a new system B or obturation system. hahaha.
I have never separated a **protaper** file, but then again, it's because I limit their use. I worked at an office that had files lying around (GT system) and separated 2 in 1 week. After the second one, I made the office label properly and throw them out after 2-3 uses. Never separated again 🙂.
Failing to plan... planning to fail.
