title: Comparative analysis of endodontic pathfinders.
abstract: Because no scientific literature exists regarding endodontic pathfinders, the aim of this study was to compare such instruments. Ten different pathfinder-type files were analyzed with respect to dimensional characteristics, pitch, and rigidity; efficiency, wear, and distortion were assessed by using an in vitro simulation exercise. SEM cross-sections and tip images were obtained and analyzed. To assess efficacy and distortion, 10 operators attempted to achieve patency with the files in small, S-shaped canals in acrylic blocks. Trends in canal negotiation efficiency and file distortion were recorded. Results showed that the Hi-5 (Miltex, York, PA) and C+ files (Dentsply/Maillefer, Johnson City, TN) were the least flexible, whereas the Pathfinder CS (SybronEndo, Glendora, CA) and Pathfinder SS (SybronEndo) files were the most. Pathfinder SS, S finder (JSDental/Sendoline, Ridgefield, CT), and D finder (Mani, Tochigi-ken, Japan) were the most efficient during the simulation exercise. Within the parameters of this study, pitch, taper, cross-section, heat tempering, metal type, tip geometry, and operator skills all influenced pathfinder efficiency.
authors.affiliation: Department of Endodontics, Baylor College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University System Health Science Center, Dallas, Texas 75246, USA.
authors.forename: Michael J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Allen
authors.forename: Gerald N
authors.initials: GN
authors.lastname: Glickman
authors.forename: Jason A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Griggs
mesh_terms: D003762:Dental Instruments; D004867:Equipment Design; D018915:Root Canal Preparation / Q000295:instrumentation*