Assessment of the tip surface of gutta-percha cones after different cutting methods.

The surface of gutta-percha cones was evaluated after using five different cutting methods, including a new TipSnip device. The gutta-percha cones were cut off using: 1) TipSnip, 2) a single cut with a scalpel blade using a gauge, 3) two cuts with a scalpel blade using a gauge, 4) a razor blade against a glass slab or 5) scissors. Samples were examined under stereomicroscopy and observed by three highly qualified evaluators. The Kappa coefficient with a 95% confidence interval was used and all scores were tabulated and analyzed statistically using a nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test with a 5% significance level. Cutting with scissors produced significant irregularities in the cone surface, providing the worst result. TipSnip, two cuts with scalpel blade, and cut with a razor against a glass slab provided the best results. A regular surface on the tips of gutta-percha cones improves apical fit, and may be achieved by means of different cutting methods.