Taper
The rate of increase in instrument or canal diameter per unit length along the long axis of the root, typically expressed as a decimal (e.g., 0.04 or 0.06).
Full Definition
In endodontics, taper describes the conical geometry of a prepared root canal or an endodontic instrument, quantified as the increase in diameter per millimetre of length. Standard ISO hand files carry a 0.02 taper, while many nickel-titanium rotary systems feature variable or increased tapers (0.04–0.08). Editors must ensure taper values are formatted consistently—as a decimal (0.06) rather than a percentage (6%)—unless the house style specifies otherwise. The term is sometimes incorrectly written as 'tapering' when the noun form is intended.
Usage
Usage note: Express as a decimal fraction (0.04, 0.06), not as a percentage, unless journal style explicitly differs. Do not use 'tapering' as a noun.
In Context
- "The canal was shaped to a 0.06 taper using a reciprocating single-file system." — Case report, clinical procedure description
- "Instruments with a greater taper may remove excessive dentine in curved canals." — Systematic review on canal transportation