Comparison Table for Endodontic Hand Files
| Item | Brand | Material | Length | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Patterson® K-Files | Stainless Steel | 25 mm | – 0.02 Taper<br>- Pre-applied silicone stops, color coded by length<br>- Square cutting blades in smaller sizes and triangular cutting blades in largest sizes<br>- Conical, noncutting tip follows canal curve<br>- Reduced risk of ledging |
| 2 | READY•STEEL™ Flexofile® Files | Stainless Steel | Sterile | – Perforated and individually labeled for easy storage and identification<br>- Single use only<br>- Dispensed in ready to use presterilized blister packs<br>- Used with regular ISO files for gradual movement to the next file size up<br>- ISO color coded<br>- Triangular blank for increased flexibility<br>- Safe-ended non-cutting Batt Tip<br>- Pre-inserted silicone stops with notching for guidance in curved canals |
| 3 | Patterson® C-Files | Stainless Steel | 0.02 Taper | – Ideal for entering sharply curved or calcified areas<br>- Blunt, nonaggressive tip for safe instrumentation<br>- Color-coded plastic handles for easy identification |
| 4 | K-Flex Files Color Coded Plastic Handle | Stainless Steel | 25 mm | – Smooth tactile sense inside the canal<br>- Unique rhomboid design for flexibility and cross-sectional strength<br>- More flexible than conventional files in sizes #30 and above<br>- Facilitates negotiation of curved canals with minimal potential for ledging and perforating |
| 5 | K Type Files | Stainless Steel | 25 mm | – Are an endodontic tool designed to offer superior cutting efficiency and precision handling during instrumentation. They feature a twisted design and are manufactured from a square blank to clean and shape the root canals. |
| 6 | C-Files – Dentsply Maillefer | Stainless Steel | N/A | – Indicated for instrumentation of calcified canals during root canal retreatment<br>- Heat-tempered steel for stiff performance<br>- Twisted file design for greater strength<br>- Eases penetration of calcified canals |
| 7 | Patterson® Hedstrom Files | Stainless Steel | 25 mm | – Stainless steel, made in Germany<br>- Preapplied silicone stops, color coded by length<br>- Flexibility and high torsion strength due to optimal geometry and design<br>- Custom designed helix angle for each size instrument |
| 8 | READY•STEEL™ C+ Files | Stainless Steel | N/A | – For instrumentation of highly calcified canals and root canal retreatment<br>- Enhanced cutting efficiency<br>- Unique design for improved performance<br>- Heat-treated stainless steel for strength and flexibility<br>- Presterilized blister packs for convenience |
| 9 | C-Files – Roydent Dental | Stainless Steel | N/A | – LC-Files (endodontic hand files) have pre-applied silicone stops that are color coded by length. |
| 10 | READY•STEEL™ Hedstrom Files | Stainless Steel | N/A | – Used for probing, permeabilization or extraction of debris during root canal retreatment. They come presterilized to not only ensure patient safety but reduce procedure preparation time. |
1. Patterson® K-Files – 25 mm Length
Patterson® K-Files – 25 mm Length
Patterson® K-Files are precision-crafted endodontic hand files made in Germany from high-quality stainless steel. Designed for safe and effective canal shaping during root canal procedures, these files feature a 0.02 taper and a 25 mm working length, making them ideal for a wide range of clinical scenarios.
Product Overview
Engineered for performance and reliability, Patterson K-Files include pre-applied, color-coded silicone stops for quick identification and depth control. The smaller sizes feature square cutting blades for strength and safety, while larger sizes use triangular blades for enhanced sharpness and flexibility. Each file is equipped with a conical, noncutting tip that smoothly follows canal curvatures, minimizing the risk of ledging or canal transportation.
Key Features
- 0.02 taper for precise canal preparation
- 25 mm working length
- Made from durable stainless steel in Germany
- Pre-applied silicone stops, color-coded by length
- Square cutting blades in small sizes; triangular blades in larger sizes
- Conical, noncutting tip for reduced ledging risk
- Balanced combination of sharpness, safety, and flexibility
Common Applications
- Manual root canal instrumentation
- Shaping and enlarging canals in endodontic treatment
- Navigating curved or complex root structures
Technical Specifications
Brand: Patterson®
Product Type: K-Files
Length: 25 mm
Taper: 0.02
Blade Shape: Square (small sizes), Triangular (large sizes)
Tip Design: Conical, noncutting
Material: Stainless steel
Origin: Made in Germany
Color Coding: Silicone stops, pre-applied
Customer Ratings
Highly regarded for consistent performance, safety, and control during manual endodontic procedures.
Customer Feedback
- The pre-stopped files save us valuable chair time.
- Great flexibility for navigating tight canals.
- Reliable sharpness with smooth handling in every case.
2. READY•STEEL™ Flexofile® Files – Stainless Steel, Sterile – Dentsply Maillefer
anufacturer: Dentsply Maillefer
READY•STEEL™ Flexofile® Files are sterile, single-use endodontic hand files designed for optimal flexibility and precision when navigating and shaping complex root canal systems. These intermediate-sized shaping files are crafted from a triangular blank to enhance adaptability in curved canals and reduce the risk of procedural errors such as ledging.
Product Overview
Delivered in presterilized blister packs, READY•STEEL™ Flexofile® Files offer convenience, infection control, and traceability in one ready-to-use system. Pre-inserted silicone stops with notching allow for confident use in curved canals, while the safe-ended Batt Tip helps maintain the canal path without cutting, offering greater procedural control and safety.
Key Features
- Presterilized and individually packaged for single use
- Made from a triangular blank for enhanced flexibility
- Safe-ended non-cutting Batt Tip reduces ledging risk
- Perforated packaging and individual labeling for easy identification
- ISO color coded for intuitive file size tracking
- Pre-inserted notched silicone stops for use with curved canals
- Compatible with ISO hand file systems for smooth progression
Common Applications
- Manual cleaning and shaping of root canals
- Navigation of challenging or curved canal anatomy
- Use in endodontic procedures requiring safe and flexible instrumentation
Technical Specifications
Brand: READY•STEEL™
Product Type: Flexofile® Hand Files
Material: Stainless Steel
Use: Single use only
Sterilization: Presterilized blister packs
File Shape: Triangular blank
Tip Design: Batt Tip (non-cutting, safe-ended)
Color Coding: ISO standard
Packaging: Perforated and labeled for storage efficiency
Customer Ratings
Widely respected for precision, flexibility, and ease of use—especially in complex endodontic procedures.
Customer Feedback
- Perfect for curved canals—extremely flexible and reliable.
- Presterilized packaging saves time and ensures safety.
- Love the Batt Tip for avoiding ledges and staying in the canal path.
3. Patterson® C-Files – 0.02 Taper, Stainless Steel
Patterson® C-Files – 0.02 Taper, Stainless Steel
Patterson® C-Files are durable endodontic hand files designed for navigating calcified or sharply curved root canals with safety and control. Made from high-quality stainless steel, these files feature a 0.02 taper and a blunt, nonaggressive tip that helps guide the file along the natural curvature of the canal while reducing the risk of ledging or perforation.
Product Overview
Engineered for challenging canal entries, Patterson® C-Files offer a combination of rigidity and precision. The color-coded plastic handles simplify size identification during procedures, allowing for smoother workflow and faster instrumentation transitions.
Key Features
- 0.02 taper for controlled shaping
- Made of stainless steel for strength and durability
- Blunt, nonaggressive tip ensures safer canal navigation
- Ideal for calcified or sharply curved canals
- Color-coded plastic handles for easy file size identification
- Designed for manual use in endodontic procedures
Common Applications
- Initial entry into calcified or narrow root canals
- Manual shaping in canals with abrupt curves
- Use in cases requiring controlled, rigid instrumentation
Technical Specifications
Brand: Patterson®
Product Type: C-Files
Material: Stainless Steel
Taper: 0.02
Tip Design: Blunt, nonaggressive
Handle: Color-coded plastic for ISO size identification
Usage: Manual endodontic instrumentation
Customer Ratings
Appreciated for dependable performance in difficult canals and intuitive color-coding for chairside efficiency.
Customer Feedback
- Excellent rigidity for tough canal entries.
- Safe tip design gives peace of mind when working in curved roots.
- Simple to identify sizes with the color-coded handles.
4. K-Flex Files Color Coded Plastic Handle – Length 25 mm – Kerr Endodontics
Manufacturer: Kerr Endodontics
K-Flex Files from Kerr Endodontics are precision-engineered hand files designed to provide exceptional tactile feedback during canal instrumentation. With a distinctive rhomboid cross-sectional design, K-Flex Files offer enhanced flexibility—especially in sizes #30 and above—while maintaining the strength needed for effective root canal shaping.
Product Overview
These 25 mm length files are ideal for negotiating curved and complex canal anatomy, helping to reduce the risk of ledging or canal distortion. The short axis of the rhomboid shape increases flexibility without sacrificing structural integrity. Each file features a color-coded plastic handle for ISO size identification and efficient chairside use.
Key Features
- 25 mm length for standard canal instrumentation
- Unique rhomboid cross-section enhances flexibility and control
- Maintains strength for effective cutting while navigating curved canals
- Greater flexibility in larger sizes (#30 and above)
- Minimizes the risk of ledging and perforation
- Color-coded plastic handles for easy ISO size recognition
- Provides smooth tactile feedback for clinician confidence
Common Applications
- Manual instrumentation of root canals, especially curved or narrow canals
- Shaping and preparing canals with minimal distortion
- Cases requiring precise tactile control
Technical Specifications
Brand: K-Flex
Manufacturer: Kerr Endodontics
Length: 25 mm
Design: Rhomboid cross-section
Material: Stainless steel
Handle: ISO color-coded plastic
Use: Manual endodontic shaping and cleaning
Customer Ratings
Highly rated for its flexibility, performance in curved canals, and tactile sensitivity.
Customer Feedback
- These are my go-to files for curved canals—very flexible and safe.
- Excellent control and feel inside the canal.
- Handles are easy to identify and the file maintains great shape.
5. K Type Files – Stainless Steel, Color Coded Plastic Handle, 25 mm Length – Dentsply Maillefer
Manufacturer: Dentsply Maillefer
Dentsply Maillefer’s K Type Files are precision-crafted endodontic hand files engineered to deliver excellent cutting efficiency and control during root canal instrumentation. Made from high-grade stainless steel and featuring a twisted design from a square blank, these files are designed for durability and effective canal shaping.
Product Overview
At 25 mm in length, these K Type Files offer a reliable balance between rigidity and flexibility for navigating root canals. The square cross-section enhances cutting action while maintaining structural integrity. Each file includes a color-coded plastic handle for quick ISO size identification, streamlining the instrumentation workflow.
Key Features
- 25 mm length for standard canal instrumentation
- Twisted design from a square blank for enhanced cutting efficiency
- Made from high-quality stainless steel for strength and longevity
- Color-coded plastic handles for easy ISO size identification
- Designed for optimal precision and tactile control
- Suitable for shaping and cleaning a wide range of canal anatomies
Common Applications
- Manual root canal instrumentation
- Cleaning and shaping of straight and moderately curved canals
- Precise canal enlargement during endodontic procedures
Technical Specifications
Brand: K Type Files
Manufacturer: Dentsply Maillefer
Material: Stainless Steel
Length: 25 mm
Blank Shape: Square
Handle: Color-coded plastic (ISO standard)
Function: Manual shaping and cleaning
Customer Ratings
Valued by endodontists and general dentists for their durability, cutting efficiency, and handling precision.
Customer Feedback
- Excellent cutting performance with great control.
- A solid, reliable choice for daily endodontic procedures.
- The square blank design gives it the edge I need in shaping canals.
6. C-Files – Stainless Steel – Dentsply Maillefer
Manufacturer: Dentsply Maillefer
Dentsply Maillefer’s C-Files are specialized endodontic instruments designed for challenging retreatment cases involving calcified or severely narrowed root canals. Manufactured from heat-tempered stainless steel, these files provide the rigidity and strength needed to penetrate resistant canal structures with control and efficiency.
Product Overview
C-Files feature a twisted design for added durability and torque resistance, making them ideal for gaining initial access in retreatment procedures. The enhanced stiffness of the heat-treated steel allows clinicians to navigate calcified canals where standard files may falter, offering a reliable solution for complex cases.
Key Features
- Made from heat-tempered stainless steel for superior stiffness
- Twisted file design enhances strength and durability
- Ideal for penetrating calcified or blocked canals
- Designed specifically for retreatment and difficult access situations
- Provides tactile control during canal negotiation
Common Applications
- Instrumentation of calcified or blocked canals
- Root canal retreatment cases
- Initial penetration and pathfinding in difficult canal anatomy
Technical Specifications
Brand: C-Files
Manufacturer: Dentsply Maillefer
Material: Heat-tempered stainless steel
Design: Twisted for added strength
Use Case: Calcified canals, retreatment access
Customer Ratings
Highly rated for reliability in retreatment and calcified canal scenarios.
Customer Feedback
- “Strong enough to tackle tough, calcified roots.”
- “Great access tool for blocked canals.”
- “Does exactly what it’s designed for—no hesitation in tough cases.”
7. Patterson® Hedstrom Files – 25 mm, 0.02 Taper
Manufacturer: Patterson Dental
Made in Germany
Patterson® Hedstrom Files are precision-manufactured stainless steel hand files used in endodontic procedures for effective root canal cleaning and shaping. Known for their aggressive cutting action and efficient debris removal, these files offer a unique combination of flexibility and torsional strength.
Product Overview
Each file features a 0.02 taper and a 25 mm working length, making them ideal for detailed canal instrumentation. With a custom-designed helix angle tailored to each file size, Patterson Hedstrom Files optimize performance across different canal anatomies. Preapplied silicone stops—color-coded by length—make size identification and depth control simple and accurate during procedures.
Key Features
- 25 mm length with 0.02 taper for precision shaping
- Made from stainless steel in Germany for quality and durability
- Custom helix angle for each file size improves cutting efficiency
- High torsional strength with retained flexibility
- Preapplied silicone stops, color coded by length for convenience
- Aggressive cutting action ideal for removing debris efficiently
Common Applications
- Manual cleaning and shaping of root canals
- Use in endodontic cases requiring strong cutting power
- Effective in straight and moderately curved canals
Technical Specifications
Brand: Patterson®
Product Type: Hedstrom Files
Material: Stainless Steel
Length: 25 mm
Taper: 0.02
Handle: Color-coded silicone stop
Design: Size-specific helix angle
Origin: Made in Germany
Customer Ratings
Highly rated for durability, effective cutting action, and ergonomic handling.
Customer Feedback
- Great debris removal and easy to control.
- The custom helix design really enhances performance.
- Reliable files for routine and advanced endo cases.
8. READY•STEEL™ C+ Files – Stainless Steel, Sterile – Dentsply Maillefer
Manufacturer: Dentsply Maillefer
READY•STEEL™ C+ Files are precision-engineered stainless steel endodontic instruments specifically designed for the instrumentation of highly calcified canals and retreatment cases. Presterilized and individually labeled, these files enhance patient safety while saving time during procedural prep.
Product Overview
These robust files feature a polished finish for smooth canal entry and efficient debris removal. The pyramid-shaped tip is optimized for penetrating resistant or calcified canals with ease. A built-in depth gauge aids in accurate working length determination during radiographic analysis, helping streamline endodontic workflows.
Key Features
- Presterilized for immediate use and infection control
- Designed for calcified canals and retreatment procedures
- Pyramid-shaped tip for easier initial penetration
- Polished surface improves debris removal and instrument glide
- Depth gauge facilitates accurate length measurement with X-rays
- Individually labeled and perforated for easy identification and handling
Common Applications
- Root canal retreatment
- Instrumentation of highly calcified or narrow canals
- Complex cases requiring precise navigation and durability
Technical Specifications
Brand: READY•STEEL™ C+
Manufacturer: Dentsply Maillefer
Material: Stainless Steel
Sterility: Presterilized, single use
Tip Design: Pyramid-shaped
Finish: Polished
Additional Features: Depth gauge, perforated, individually labeled
Customer Ratings
Favored by clinicians for its strength, safety, and ability to tackle complex canal anatomies.
Customer Feedback
- The pyramid tip cuts through calcified areas like no other.
- Presterilized and ready to go—huge time-saver in busy clinics.
- Accurate length marking makes radiographic measurements so much easier.
9. C-Files – Stainless Steel – Roydent Dental
Manufacturer: Roydent Dental
Roydent Dental’s C-Files are high-performance endodontic hand files designed to create reliable initial access in calcified or constricted root canals. Manufactured from heat-tempered stainless steel, these files offer the perfect balance of stiffness and controlled flexibility, making them ideal for challenging canal entry.
Product Overview
Engineered for accuracy and penetration, Roydent C-Files feature sharp edges twisted all the way to the tip, enabling effective navigation through calcified obstructions. Each file includes pre-applied silicone stops that are color-coded by length, providing easy depth control and identification during treatment.
Key Features
- Heat-tempered stainless steel for added stiffness
- Sharp, twisted edges extending to the tip for effective cutting
- Ideal for initial canal access in calcified or narrowed canals
- Stiff yet retains enough flexibility for safe navigation
- Pre-applied, color-coded silicone stops for precise working length control
- Designed for reliable pathfinding during endodontic procedures
Common Applications
- Creating initial access in calcified canals
- Root canal retreatment requiring entry through resistant material
- Difficult-to-navigate canal systems requiring enhanced stiffness
Technical Specifications
Brand: C-Files
Manufacturer: Roydent Dental
Material: Heat-tempered stainless steel
Tip Design: Sharp, twisted to the tip
Flexibility: Stiff with controlled flexibility
Handle: Pre-applied color-coded silicone stops
Function: Initial access and calcification breakthrough
Customer Ratings
Recognized for reliability, strength, and precision when tackling tough endodontic cases.
Customer Feedback
- “Incredible for breaking through calcified areas quickly.”
- “The stiffness gives me the control I need for tough canals.”
- “Love the pre-applied stops—makes working length a breeze.”
10. READY•STEEL™ Hedstrom Files – Stainless Steel, Sterile – Dentsply Maillefer
Manufacturer: Dentsply Maillefer
Dentsply Maillefer’s READY•STEEL™ Hedstrom Files are high-performance endodontic instruments designed for retreatment procedures including probing, permeabilization, and effective debris removal. Made of stainless steel and presterilized in blister packs, they help streamline workflow while maintaining the highest standards of infection control.
Product Overview
READY•STEEL™ Hedstrom Files feature a cutting edge that is sharper and more precise than conventional endodontic instruments, ensuring efficient performance during retreatment. Each file includes an ISO color-coded plastic handle and a silicone stopper for consistent depth measurement and easy size identification.
Key Features
- Stainless steel construction for strength and precision
- Sharper, more defined cutting edge for efficient debris removal
- Ideal for probing, permeabilization, and retreatment cleaning
- Presterilized blister packs reduce prep time and prevent cross-contamination
- ISO color-coded handles for quick file size identification
- Includes silicone stoppers for accurate working length control
- Designed for single-use to ensure patient safety
Common Applications
- Root canal retreatment procedures
- Probing and permeabilization of previously treated or blocked canals
- Removal of debris or softened material from the canal system
Technical Specifications
Brand: READY•STEEL™ Hedstrom Files
Manufacturer: Dentsply Maillefer
Material: Stainless Steel
Sterility: Presterilized, single use
Handle Type: ISO color-coded plastic
Packaging: Sterile blister packs
Additional Features: Silicone stoppers for length control
Customer Ratings
Highly rated for its enhanced cutting ability, clinical safety, and convenience in retreatment workflows.
Customer Feedback
- Super sharp and reliable—great for retreatment cases.
- Presterilized and ready to go saves so much time.
- The cutting edge makes removal fast and thorough.
