Canal anatomy modifications by using path files, glide path instruments analysed by Cone Beam Computed Tomography

The aim of this study was to describe canal anatomy modifications by Path Files (PF) using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in mandibular first molars. A total of 100 mesiobuccal (MB) root canals of mandibular first molars were prepared with PF. CBCT was used to scan the specimens before and after instrumentation. The root canal curvature, centric ability, apical transportation, root canal cross sectional area and canal volume were measured. Changes in canal anatomy modifications were recorded at 0, 1, 2, 3, 5 and 7mm intervals. There was a statistical difference in the root canal curvatures between the pre and post instrumented samples (P < 0.05). There was no transportation at 5mm , all the canals were transported towards the distal side except there was a slight mesial transportation at 0mm. They exhibited good centric ability at all the intervals except at 1mm (P > 0.05). The difference in the cross sectional area was also statistically significant at all the intervals (P < 0.05).The changes in the volume were statistically significant at all the intervals except at 3 mm (P > 0.05).