Which instrument is used to clean and widen the root canal during a root filling procedure?

The file is the appropriate instrument used to clean and widen the root canal during a root filling procedure. Root canal therapy involves the meticulous removal of infected or damaged pulp tissue, followed by the cleaning and shaping of the canal system. The file is designed for this specific purpose, featuring a serrated or spiral design that allows it to effectively debride the canal walls, removing debris and bacteria while creating a smooth and appropriately sized canal for filling.

Files come in various sizes and shapes to accommodate the unique anatomy of different teeth and their root canals, allowing dental professionals to access and clean even the most delicate and complex structures. This preparation is crucial for ensuring a successful root filling and promoting long-term tooth preservation.

While the finger plugger is used for compacting the filling material into the canal, and the plain broach is primarily designed for the removal of pulp tissue rather than cleaning the canal, the reamer, which is similar in function to the file, tends to enlarge the canal rather than focus on cleaning. Therefore, the file is distinctly recognized for its primary role in cleaning and shaping, making it the correct instrument for this part of the root filling procedure.