Woodpecker TFRK (Terauchi File Removal Kit)

1. What is the primary use of the TFRK?

The TFRK is designed to safely remove broken endodontic files from root canals during dental procedures.

2. Can the kit be reused?

Yes, the entire kit comes in an autoclavable cassette, allowing for sterilization and reuse.

3. What types of ultrasonic scaler tips are included in the kit?

The kit includes straight and sword-shaped tips: E87/ED87, E88/ED88, and E89/ED89. These tips are compatible with UDS and DTE ultrasonic scalers.

4. How do I know which tool to use for different root canal curvatures?

For canal curvatures greater than 15°, use the K-ENDO K6 N60 rotary file. For curvatures under 15°, GATE DRILLS #3 or Trephine TFRK-MT may be used based on the file size and canal dimensions.

5. Is there any specific patient caution?

Yes, caution is advised when using the TFRK on patients with heart disease, mental disturbances, or children.

6. Can the loop in the Endo file remover (TFRK-L) be replaced?

Yes, the loop in the Endo file remover is replaceable and can be adjusted to fit the broken file.

7. How should I maintain the sharpness of the tips?

The included polishing rod (TFRK-P) can be used to sharpen the tips of the ultrasonic scaler and dental explorers to maintain their effectiveness.

FAQs on Terauchi File Removal Techniques 

8. What should I use for removing separated files with coronal diameters greater than 0.45 mm or canal curvature greater than 15 degrees?

If the coronal diameter of the separated file is greater than 0.45 mm or the canal curvature exceeds 15 degrees, use the K-ENDO K6 N60 2% L25 file to create a staging preparation to the edge of the separated file.

9. What technique should I use for removing separated files with coronal diameters less than 0.45 mm or canal curvature less than 15 degrees?

For smaller coronal diameters (< 0.45 mm) or less canal curvature, use GATE DRILLS #3 bur to create sufficient working space for the TFRK-MT bur. This helps expose the coronal portion of the file segment while reducing the risk of ledging.

10. How should I operate the TFRK-MT bur for file removal?

The TFRK-MT bur should be used in a counter-clockwise motion at 600 RPM to create an unscrewing effect that can help spin the separated file out of the canal. Avoid exceeding 800 RPM to prevent ledging, especially in curved canals.

11. When and how should I use ultrasonic tips during file removal?

After creating a space with GATE DRILLS #3 and TFRK-MT burs, use TFRK ultrasonic tips to further expose the coronal portion of the separated file. Start with a low power setting, gradually increasing it until resonance is achieved. These tips should not be used at high power, as they are delicate and can break due to fatigue.

12.How can I use ultrasonic tips to loosen a separated file?

Use the E88/ED88, E89/ED89, or E87/ED87 ultrasonic tips to create a semicircular space around the separated file. Apply intermittent pulses of ultrasonic power to loosen the file without causing excessive heat or fatigue to the instrument. Always focus activation on the inner curve of the canal to avoid driving the file further apically.

13. What should I do if the separated file is resistant to ultrasonic activation?

If the separated file does not disengage after 60 seconds of ultrasonic activation, consider cutting more dentin with the E87/ED87 tip along the canal wall adjacent to the file. Deepening the trough can loosen the file. You may also use the Endo file remover (Yoshi Loop) if ultrasonic techniques are unsuccessful.

14. How do I use the Endo file remover to extract a file fragment?

To use the Endo file remover (Yoshi Loop), ensure that the canal is wide enough (at least 0.4 mm). Adjust the loop size to fit the coronal portion of the separated file. Slide the loop over the file, tighten it by pulling back on the plastic button, and then gently pull the loop to dislodge and remove the file.

15. What should I do if the Endo file remover slips off during file extraction?

If the Loop slips off, readjust the loop size using an explorer, reinsert the loop, and try again. It may take several attempts to secure the separated file. Ensure the file has been sufficiently loosened before engaging it with the Loop.

16. How can I prevent further fracturing of the separated file during ultrasonic activation?

Apply ultrasonic activation only to the inner curve of the canal. Creating a thin trough on the inside of the canal curvature reduces the risk of secondary fractures. Avoid activating the ultrasonic tip on the outside curvature, as this may push the file deeper into the canal.

17. What should I do if the separated file fragment doesn’t move after multiple attempts?

If the file is longer than 4.5 mm and ultrasonic activation fails, or if a shorter file doesn’t exit within 10 seconds, switch to using the Endo file remover for more efficient extraction. This tool is especially effective for files shorter than 4.5 mm that resist ultrasonic removal.

FAQs on Cleaning, Disinfection, and Sterilization

18. What are the steps for automated cleaning of the Endo File Remover?

• Remove the handle, lock nut, and needle core, and rinse with pure or distilled water.
• Dry with a soft cloth and place in a clean tray.
• Run the automatic cleaning using a washer-disinfector, following pre-wash, wash, and rinse cycles as specified. Ensure the cleaning agent used is neodisher MediZym and complete the process with 20 minutes of drying.

19. What should I do if my automatic cleaning equipment doesn’t have a drying function?

• Use a soft absorbent cloth to remove water, or dry the product with compressed air until no liquid is visible. Alternatively, dry the product in a medical drying cabinet at 80°C-120°C for 15-40 minutes.

19. How do I visually inspect the Endo File Remover after cleaning?

Ensure there are no visible stains. If there are, repeat the cleaning process. Check for damage like crushing, corrosion, or bending, and discard the product if it’s damaged.

20. What are the sterilization requirements for the Endo File Remover?

• Pack the product in EN ISO 11607-compliant material.
• Use fractionated pre-vacuum steam sterilization at 134°C, 2.0-2.3 bars pressure, for 5 minutes, with 20 minutes of drying time.

21. Can I use alternative sterilization methods like ethylene oxide or radiation?

No, alternative methods like ethylene oxide, formaldehyde, and low-temperature plasma sterilization are not recommended. The manufacturer assumes no responsibility for non-recommended methods.

22. How long can I store the sterilized Endo File Remover?

Sterilized products should be stored in a sealed bag or container for up to 7 days. If exceeded, reprocess the product before use.

23. What is the automated cleaning process for a Dental Explorer?

Rinse with pure or distilled water, dry with a soft cloth, and place in a washer-disinfector. Follow the washer program with pre-washing, cleaning with neodisher MediZym, rinsing, and drying for 20 minutes.

24. Is disinfection necessary for the Endo File Remover or Dental Explorer?

No, disinfection is not required because these products must be sterilized after cleaning.

25. What should I check after sterilization of dental instruments?

Check the packaging for damage. If damaged, re-clean and sterilize before use. Ensure the storage environment is clean and disinfected regularly.

26. What is the sterilization procedure for the tips of an Ultrasonic Scaler?

The scaler tips should be cleaned and disinfected using washer-disinfectors and then sterilized up to 300 times. Avoid exposure to temperatures above 138°C, as this can damage the product.

27. How should I store sterilized instruments?

Store them in a clean, dry, ventilated area with controlled humidity (10-93%) and temperature (-20°C to +55°C). Ensure the storage time does not exceed 7 days before reprocessing.

28. Can I use strong detergents to clean dental instruments?

No, strong detergents with pH levels higher than 9 or lower than 5 can reduce the lifespan of the products. Always use the recommended cleaning agents.