Effect of Manual and Mechanical Glide Path Preparation on Working Length Accuracy.

Accurate working length determination is essential for successful root canal treatment and is influenced by proper glide path preparation. This in vitro study aims to compare the accuracy of working length achievement following manual and mechanical glide path preparation techniques. Sixty extracted single-rooted permanent teeth will be randomly allocated into two groups. Group 1 will undergo manual glide path preparation using stainless steel K-files, while Group 2 will receive mechanical glide path preparation using rotary PathFile instruments. Initial and final working lengths will be measured using an electronic apex locator and confirmed with digital radiographs. The difference between the initial and final working lengths will be analyzed statistically. The results of this study will help identify the more effective glide path preparation technique for maintaining working length accuracy and improving endodontic treatment outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria: Extracted permanent single-rooted teeth. Teeth with fully formed mature apices. Teeth with intact roots and no structural defects. Root canals with curvature less than 15 degrees. Teeth with patent canals allowing negotiation with a size #10 K-file. Exclusion Criteria: Teeth with caries, fractures, cracks, or root defects. Teeth with previous endodontic treatment. Teeth showing root resorption or calcified canals. Teeth with unusual root canal anatomy or multiple canals. Teeth with severe canal curvature greater than 15 degrees. Teeth with immature apices or open apices.