Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the canal transportation and instrumentation time of pediatric rotary files with or without a glide path.
Methods: Fifty simulated resin blocks were randomly assigned to one of five experimental groups (n = 10): Group K is a K-type hand file (control), group P is a Kiddy files rotary system, group OP is a One G glide path file and a Kiddy files rotary system, group F is an AF baby tooth file (AFB) rotary system, and group OF is a One G glide path file and an AFB rotary system. The instrumentation time was recorded after preparing simulated canals. Image J software was used to calculate canal transportation at various canal levels.
Results: The group K had the longest preparation period (p < 0.05) and the greatest apical transportation scores (0.35 ± 0.23). It was followed by groups F (0.18 ± 0.26), OF (0.03 ± 0.09), OP (0.03 ± 0.03), and P (0.02 ± 0.01). The difference between the K and P groups, the K and OP groups, and the F and P groups was statistically significant (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Using a glide path during canal preparation by rotary systems could reduce procedural errors. For root canal preparation, Kiddy files with or without a glide path may be advised.