Comparison of glide paths created with K-files, PathFiles, and the ProGlider file, and their effects on subsequent WaveOne preparation in curved canals

BACKGROUND: The root canal glide path has been recommended as the foundation for a safer root canal preparation. The aim of this study was to compare glide paths created with K-files, PathFiles, and the ProGlider file, and their effects on subsequent WaveOne preparation regarding canal transportation, canal volume increase, apical extruded debris, and working time in curved canals. METHODS: Sixty mesial canals of extracted human mandibular first molars were randomly assigned to the K-file (KF), PathFile (PF) and ProGlider file (PG) groups for glide path preparation. Then, canals were prepared using WaveOne files. Specimens were scanned (voxel size: 18 μm) three times using micro-computed tomography: pre-glide path, post-glide path, and post-root canal preparation. Canal transportations were measured at 1, 3, and 5 mm levels from the apical foramen, and canal volume increases were also accounted. Apical extruded debris during preparation was collected for measurement. Meanwhile,working time was recorded. Data were analyzed statistically using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s post hoc tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: After glide path preparation, the PG and PF groups showed significantly less canal transportation than the KF group at all levels (P < 0.05), while the PG group exhibited a significantly larger canal volume increase than the PF and KF groups (P < 0.05). After the subsequent canal preparation with WaveOne, the PG and PF groups showed significantly less canal transportation than the KF group at 3 and 5 mm levels, and the PG group showed significantly less canal transportation than the PF group at 5 mm level (P < 0.05). However, statistically similar canal volume increases occurred among the three groups. Additionally, the PG and PF groups produced less apical extruded debris compared to the KF group (P < 0.05). The working time of the PG group was the shortest, while that of the KF group was the longest. CONCLUSION: Compared with the PathFiles and K-files, the ProGlider file combined with the WaveOne file showed reduced canal transportation and working time.