Know Your Files: Endodontic File Sizing & Color-Coding Made Simple

As an endodontic clinician or student, mastering the ISO color codes and corresponding file numbers is non-negotiable.

Here’s a clean visual guide to help you memorize with ease 👇

📌 Standard Endo File Color Codes:

Color Size

🩷 Pink → 06
🩶 Grey → 08
💜 Purple → 10
⬜ White → 15
💛 Yellow → 20
❤️ Red → 25
🔵 Blue → 30
💚 Green → 35
⚫ Black → 40

🦷 The color progression repeats beyond 40 in a similar pattern. Each color isn’t just for visibility — it’s a global standard aiding precision and safety during canal instrumentation.

💡 Pro Tip:

Use smaller files (Pink-Grey-Purple) for initial canal scouting

Shift to mid-range (White-Yellow-Red) for shaping

Larger files (Blue-Green-Black) for final preparation

📚 Dental tip of the day: Teaching juniors or interns? Always link color with tactile feedback — they remember better!