4. • Self-Adjusting File (SAF), a motorized
endodontic file.
• The Self Adjusting file (SAF) is a motorized
endodontic file to be used for cleaning and
shaping of root canals, as part of the root
canal treatment procedure.
5. • The hollow file is designed as an elastically-
compressible, thin-walled pointed cylinder
• composed from medical grade nickel-
titanium-alloy ("NiTi") extremely flexible
6. an action that relies on
• its compressibility to best fit the
cross-section of the canal at any
location.
• adapt to the root canal three-
dimensional morphology
7. an action that relies on
• its abrasive sandblasted surface
8. an action that relies on
• its operation in vertical vibration at 3000-5000
opm amplitude of 0.4mm
9. an action that relies on
• its operation by the user in short
vertical pecking motions
10. The SAF cleans and disinfects the
canal by:
• continuous pressure-less irrigation that
flows through its hollow lumen
• carried to the apical area mechanically
11. The SAF is available in 2 diameters:
• 1.5mm (in lengths of 21mm, 25mm and31mm)
• and 2.0mm (in lengths of 21mm and 25mm).
• The file is attached to the handpiece via a polyacetal
shank
12. Contraindications:
• Do not use the 1.5mm diameter SAF ISO #35
K-file or larger to its full working length
• The SAF is not to be used in working lengths
greater than 31mm.
13. ADVANTAGE OF USING SAF
• Better shaping maintaining the anatomy of
the canal
• Better cleaning
• No file separation
• Easy to use
• Better Retreatment procedures
14. Protocol for Use 1.5mm and 2.0mm
diameter SAF
• A pre-operative X-ray should
• Isolate the tooth properly
• Prepare a standard access cavity
• Locate root canal orifices
33. References:
o 1. Walia H. Brantley, WA, Gerstein H.An initial investigation of the bending and torsional
properties of Nitinol root canal files. J Endod 1984;4:346-51.
o 2. 21st Century Endodontics. Gerald N. Glickman D.D.S., M.S. and Kenneth A.
o Koch, DMD. Journal of the American Dental Association, Volume 131, June
2017, 39S - 46S.
o 3. Introduction to Rotary Endodontic Instrumentation, Dr. Ken Koch, 2 CE Credit
on-line tutorial, 2010-2013. WWW. TULSADENTALDENTSPLY.com
o 4. Pro System GT – The Evolution of Endodontic Technique,Dr. Ken Koch, Dental
Town May 2001, Vol.2/Issue 4, pgs 38-40.
o 5. Gems of Wisdom, Kenneth Koch, DMD. and Dennis Brave, DDS. Dental
Economics August 2001, PennWell Publishing.
o 6. More Gems of Wisdom, Kenneth Koch, DMD and Dennis Brave, DDS. Dental
Economics October 2016, PennWell Publishing.
o 7. Fundamentals for Choosing a Rotary File: File Design and Performance, Ken
Koch, DMD. Endodontic Therapy, Vol. 1, Number 1, Pg.12. Montage Media
Corporation, Mahwah, NJ 07430