The importance of glide path preparation in endodontics: a consideration of instruments and literature.

The efficacy of root canal preparation is considerably enhanced when an effort is made to provide an effective glide path. In addition the risk of undesirable fractures of instruments is reduced. The introduction of techniques and in struments specifically directed at the preparation of a glide path have facilitated root canal shaping and provide a variety from which the clinician may choose, guided by the relevant design features and performance characteristics.