(TC03) An Alternative Technique for Carrier Removal

Removal of carriers or silver points during retreatments can be challenging and time consuming. One proposed method for removing these materials is a braiding technique using multiple Hedstrom files with a hemostat. This method can be challenging in posterior teeth, especially in smaller canals that do not have space around the carrier or silver point to braid the Hedstrom files.

This table clinic uses a post removal system for cases like these. The technique involves making a pilot hole around the carrier with a 25/.04 rotary file. A heating unit can be used to soften the coronal gutta-percha before using the rotary file. The rotary file is taken approximately 4-5 mm apical to the orifice. Then, a larger sized Hedstrom file (25 mm in length) is manually twisted clockwise into this pilot hole until resistance is met. The Hedstrom file should feel tight enough to engage the carrier or silver point, but not overly tightened. The post removal pliers are attached to the Hedstrom file under the handle and the screw on the pliers is twisted in a clockwise direction. Slow rotation of the screw is effective, as this helps the Hedstrom file stay engaged with the carrier. After a few rotations, the screw on the post removal pliers will have noticeably less resistance which implies that the carrier or silver point is loose in the canal or chamber and can be removed with cotton pliers. Bottom line: Post removal systems can be used to remove carriers or silver points.