Glide Path
A smooth, continuous, reproducible channel from the canal orifice to the apical foramen, established before rotary instrumentation to prevent file separation.
Full Definition
The glide path is a preparatory step in root canal treatment in which a smooth, patent pathway is created through the root canal system using small hand files or dedicated glide-path instruments. It reduces the risk of ledge formation, transportation, and rotary file fracture. In editorial contexts, 'glide path' is written as two words; hyphenation as 'glide-path' is acceptable only when used as a compound modifier. Authors sometimes incorrectly use the term interchangeably with 'patency,' which editors should flag. The concept is particularly relevant in curved or calcified canals.
Usage
Usage note: Two words as a noun ('establish a glide path'); hyphenate only as a compound modifier ('glide-path file').
In Context
- "A confirmed glide path is mandatory before introducing any nickel-titanium rotary system." — Clinical guidelines document
- "The authors described glide-path preparation using a dedicated reciprocating file." — Materials and methods section