Topographic analysis of HyFlex EDM Glide Path, ProGlider, TruNatomy Glider, and WaveOne Gold Glider after micro-glide path preparation in simulated root canals with single curvature

Purpose: This study aimed to compare HyFlex electrical discharge machining Glide Path, ProGlider, TruNatomy Glider, and WaveOne Gold Glider in terms of topographic changes after instrumentation.
Methods: Simulated canals with 40° curvature were used to analyze the surface behavior of four brands of micro-glide path files (n = 36 in total, n = 3/subgroup). The files were used in single or three simulated canals for micro- glide path preparation. Surface topographies were evaluated using atomic force microscopy. The data were analyzed with Shapiro–Wilk and two-way robust analysis of variance tests.
Results: RMS median values did not differ according to the file groups (p = 0.448) and use (p = 0.055). There was a significant difference between the intact WaveOne Gold Glider group and the use of 3 times (p = 0.002).
Conclusion: The tested files exhibited acceptable surface behavior considering single use but in multi-rooted teeth. However, it should be considered that more surface distortion occurs on the surface of heat-treated files when used for multiple roots, especially curved ones.