Methods for manufacturing endodontic instruments

An endodontic instrument adapted for use in performing an endodontic procedure, comprising:

• a metallic rod, said rod having a proximal end and a distal end so as to define a tapered cutting portion adjacent said distal end;
• and
• at least one helical cutting edge extending around said cutting portion,
• said endodontic instrument formed by:
• (a) providing a metallic rod;
• (b) grinding or machining said rod so as to form said at least one helical cutting edge;
• and
• (c) chemically milling said cutting portion of said rod so as to sharpen said at least one cutting edge and/or taper said cutting portion and/or remove microfissures or cracks.

An endodontic instrument adapted for use in performing an endodontic procedure, comprising:

• a metallic rod, said rod having a proximal end and a distal end so as to define a cutting portion adjacent said distal end;
• and
• at least one helical cutting edge extending around said cutting portion;
• said endodontic instrument formed by:
• (a) providing a metallic rod having a cutting portion with a polygonal cross section;
• (b) torsioning said rod so as to form said at least one helical cutting edge in said cutting portion;
• and
• (c) chemically milling said cutting portion of said rod so as to sharpen said at least one cutting edge and/or taper said cutting portion.