Optimum glide path motion is safer than continuous rotation of files in glide path preparation.

This study evaluated the resistance to flexural fatigue and torsional strength of files for glide path preparation in continuous rotation or Optimum Glide Path motion (OGP). ScoutRace 15.02 and ProGlider 16.02 files were used in a dynamic testing device during preparation of simulating curved root canals (40-degree curvature and 5 mm radius). For the torsional test, a machine was used to test torsion measured maximum torsional strength (N.cm). Two-way anova and Tukey's multiple comparisons test were used for statistical analysis. Files in OGP motion had a statistically better resistance to flexural fatigue (P < 0.05). ProGlider files took longer time to failure than ScoutRace files only when OGP was used (P < 0.05). The torsional test revealed that OGP produced significantly less torsional stress than rotary motions for both types of glide path files (P < 0.05) In conclusion, OGP motion increased substantially the mechanical safety of endodontic glide path files.