New RoTAC Rotary File Grips

RoTAC Rotary File Grips change rotary files into hand files to prepare difficult tight-curved canals safely and efficiently

Why develop RoTAC File Grips

Motor file separation is a major, but preventable, problem. The common thread running through this difficulty is the device controlling the file. Most of the journal articles written on ways to prevent motor file separation give us good ideas, but don’t tell us to stop using the motor in difficult cases! It’s agreed there is a high risk of motor file separation in tight curved canals, especially in molar teeth. Early assessment of this risk is critical.

The idea behind the development of RoTAC File Grips is to eliminate motor file separation. Having the option to switch to manual rotary file control in difficult cases can avoid the embarrassment of motor file separation and its complications.

How to reduce motor file separation

In high-risk cases, “motor power control” can become “out of control.”

Imagine taking back control of the file. First let’s find the most successful manual file instrumentation of the past then build on that foundation as we use all the good qualities and benefits of today’s tapered files.

The classic article by Dr. James Roane in the Journal of Endodontics in 1985 significantly improved our way of using hand files in curved canals.¹ This technique was accepted worldwide and became a big part of dental school endodontic training. It was known for cutting the most dentin with the most control.

Dr. Steven S. Larsen notes that applying Dr. Roane’s manual “Balance Force Concept” with tapered files is the key to eliminating motor file separation.

What elements of Dr. Roane’s technique help prevent separation?

1. Select the right file design
   • A file that cuts dentin in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions
   • Sharp triangular cross-section tapered files (examples: Brasseler EndoSequence^® CM, Dentsply Vortex Blue^®, or other similar files).
2. Move the file with efficiency
   • Simple watch-winding or back-and-forth Balance Force motion of a triangular-designed file cuts the full 360-degree circumference of the canal with a reciprocating arch of only 60º. (Quarter turn 90º works even better.) This advances the file toward working
   • Remove the cut dentin debris with a few gentle clockwise turns.
3. New way to control the rotary file with tactile sensitivity
   • RoTAC rotary file grips were developed by Dr. Steven S. Larsen and a team of endodontists and engineers
   • Slip-on, color-coded easy identification
   • Big, soft, comfortable hand control grip
   • Autoclavable for multiple uses

Results: Do they really work?

This technique was introduced to dental students prior to their clinical experience. Comments from students and instructors include: “Manual rotary tapered file instrumentation with Rotary File Grips is easy to teach, easy to learn, and easy to apply.” The department recorded over 750 clinical cases with less of the usual treatment mishaps and not one file separation. Endodontists, general dentists, and students find this simple technique a welcome option to safeguard file separation in difficult cases.

This information was provided by Venta Endo.