Overview
EN ISO 6360-2:2004 - Dentistry: Number coding system for rotary instruments - Part 2: Shapes (ISO 6360-2:2004) is the international/CEN-adopted standard that defines the three-digit shape code used to describe the geometry of all dental rotary instruments and several related accessories. The shape code forms the third group of three digits in the 15-digit ISO 6360 overall coding system (see ISO 6360-1 for general characteristics). EN ISO 6360-2:2004 provides a generic, geometry-based cataloguing system to promote consistent naming, classification and cross-border trade of dental burs, diamond instruments, wheels, discs, mandrels and special rotary tools.
Key Topics
- Scope & purpose
- Specifies code numbers for the shapes of dental rotary instruments and selected accessories.
- Codes are generic and support, but do not replace, product-specific standards.
- Coding structure
- Shape is a three-digit code occupying positions 7–9 of the 15-digit ISO 6360 number.
- Codes are primarily based on geometric form and include variations (e.g., tip angle, head length).
- Shape categories covered
- Spherical (round), hemispherical, inverted conical, torpedo, conical with ogival end, wheels, discs, diamond instruments, and many special instrument shapes.
- Examples in the standard: code 001 = spherical (round); 137 used as a basic code for a diamond instrument example; codes 284/294 referenced for torpedo shapes; 213 for conical with ogival end.
- Usage rules
- Codes are generic - exact product specs (lengths, grit, materials) appear in other ISO 6360 parts (e.g., ISO 6360-3, -4, -6, -7).
- For allocation of new codes, applicants submit descriptions and drawings to ISO/TC 106/SC 4 secretariat (DIN NADENT).
Applications
- Manufacturers: consistent product coding in catalogs, part numbering and international product listings.
- Dental suppliers & distributors: standardized ordering, inventory management and cross-border trade.
- Dental professionals & clinics: clear identification of rotary tool shapes for selection and clinical use.
- Regulators & standards bodies: harmonized terminology for conformity assessment and procurement.
- CAD/ERP systems: use the 15-digit ISO 6360 schema (including the 3-digit shape code) for database fields and search filters.
Related Standards
- ISO 6360-1 - General characteristics (required reading for full coding system).
- Parts covering specific characteristics: ISO 6360-3, -4, -6, -7 (and Part 5 under preparation for root-canal instruments).
- Adopted by CEN as EN ISO 6360-2:2004, enabling national implementation across member bodies.
EN ISO 6360-2:2004 is essential for anyone involved in the design, manufacture, specification or procurement of dental rotary instruments who needs a consistent, internationally recognized number coding system for instrument shapes.
