Cutting efficiency of conventional and heat‐treated nickel–titanium rotary or reciprocating glide path instruments

Aim To compare the cutting efficiency of several glide path files: HyFlex EDM Glidepath File ( HEGF ), One G ( OG ), R‐Pilot ( RP ) and WaveOne Gold Glider ( WOGG ) at different cutting inclinations. Methodology Cutting efficiency of 120 new HEGF , OG , RP and WOGG was tested at 90°, 70° and 45° inclination in relation to the sample. Depending on manufacturer instructions, instruments were tested in continuous rotation or reciprocating motion against standardized gypsum samples for 120 s using a customized apparatus. Cutting efficiency was determined by measuring the weight loss and the length of the sample cut. Data were analysed using two‐way analysis of variance and Tukey t ‐test ( P  < 0.05). Results RP and WOGG had greater cutting ability than HEGF and OG in all tested angles. RP tested at 45° had significantly greater cutting efficiency than when tested at 90° and 70° ( P  < 0.05). OG was not significantly different in terms of cutting ability at 90°, 70° and 45° ( P  > 0.05). HEGF and WOGG had significantly greater cutting efficiency at 45° and 70° compared to 90° ( P  < 0.05), with no significant difference between 45° and 70° ( P  > 0.05). RP had the greatest cutting ability at all tested angles. Conclusions Reciprocating glide path instruments had greater cutting efficiency compared to those in continuous rotation. An inclined insertion (45° or 70°) increased the cutting ability of glide path files except for One G conventional NiTi files.