Nonsurgical endodontic treatment is the first choice in case of endodontic failure. The first step of retreatment is root canal opening, which will enable the biomechanical preparation of the root canal with proper irrigation and disinfection. The obturation removal protocol includes manual files, solvents and Reciproc, a single-use reciprocating file. This review of the scientific literature addresses the specific characteristics of manufacture, kinematics and function of the instruments and chemical products used in this protocol. We found that the choice of manual files, xylol and Reciproc would allow for a simple, safe and effective opening of the root canal.