Endodontic instrument having notched cutting surfaces

Abstract

A fluteless endodontic file is provided, formed from a tapered shaft of material having a prismatic shape generally defined by three or more side surfaces and three or more interposed corners. A plurality of notches are cut into one or more corners defining cutting surfaces, points and/or edges. The notched cutting surfaces are formed such that the file, when rotated and/or reciprocated within a root canal, effectively cuts/debrides hard tissue (known in the art as dentin) as well as soft tissue, thus, forming an optimal canal shape. The cutting surfaces are also preferably formed at an angle to the centerline of the instrument to provide optimal cutting efficiency and material removal. The fluteless file design exhibits increased efficacy, with less tendency to bind and break within the root canal and also significantly reduces manufacturing and capital equipment costs.

1 . An endontic instrument for cleaning and extirpating the walls of a root canal, said instrument comprising: 
 an elongated shaft having a generally prismatic shape defined by three or more sides and three or more exposed corners; and    a plurality of notches formed along at least one of said corners, said notches defining one or more cutting planes having cutting edges adapted to contact the walls of said root canal when said instrument is rotated and/or reciprocated therein.    
   
   
       2 .- 47 . (canceled)