This invention is an obturator for use in filling an endodontically prepared root canal in a tooth formed as an elongated body having a handle portion (10) and a shaft (12), the handle portion (10) being configured for grasping by a practitioner whereby the shaft (12) may be inserted into a root canal, the shaft tapering from the handle (10) to the shaft distal end (14), the shaft having an exterior surface having a generally linear groove (22) therein extending from near the handle to the shaft distal end, or at least adjacent the shaft distal end, the groove providing a channel for flow of excess filler material as the shaft is positioned into a prepared root canal, increased flexibility of the shaft, and a passageway that will accept a slender, tapered metallic retrieval tool, such as a typical endodontic file, to assist in the removal of the shaft from a root canal.