The image shows a pack of Dentsply Maillefer PathFile® Rotary Glide Path Files. These are specialized Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) instruments used by dentists to create a smooth "glide path" before using larger shaping files during a root canal.

PathFiles are a series of three NiTi rotary instruments designed to replace manual stainless steel K-files for the initial pre-flaring of the root canal. They are engineered to navigate curved and narrow canals with high precision, reducing the risk of procedural errors like ledging or transportation.

• High Flexibility: Made of NiTi alloy with a square cross-section, providing superior flexibility to follow canal anatomy.

• Cyclic Fatigue Resistance: Specifically designed to resist breakage even in complex, curved canals.

• Safety Tip: Features a non-active (non-cutting) tip to prevent "zipping" or perforating the canal apex.

• Gradual Taper: A constant .02 taper ensures a smooth transition between sizes.

• Efficiency: Significantly faster than manual instrumentation and better preserves the original canal shape.

• Material: Nickel-Titanium (NiTi).

• Tip Sizes: Available in three sequential ISO sizes:

  • 013 (Violet)

  • 016 (White)

  • 019 (Yellow)

• Lengths: 21mm, 25mm, and 31mm.

• Speed & Torque: Recommended rotation speed of 300 RPM with a torque setting of 2–5 N·cm.

• Cross-Section: Square.

• Initial Scouting: Negotiate the canal manually with a #08 or #10 K-file to the working length.

• Sequence: Use PathFiles in sequence (#013 → #016 → #019) to the full working length.

• Motion: Use a constant rotation at 300 RPM with light apical pressure.

• Irrigation: Always use a lubricant (like Glyde™) and irrigate thoroughly between each file.

• Transition: Once the #019 PathFile reaches the apex, the canal is ready for shaping with systems like ProTaper or WaveOne.

• Box Content: Typically sold in packs of 6 files.

• Assorted Packs: One pack containing 2 of each size (#13, #16, #19).

• Single Size Packs: One pack containing 6 files of the same size and length.

• Single-Patient Use: To ensure maximum safety and cutting efficiency, Dentsply recommends these as single-use instruments to prevent cross-contamination and metal fatigue.

• Sterilization: If not labeled as "Pre-sterilized," they must be autoclaved at 134°C before use.

• Warranty: Dentsply Sirona typically provides a standard manufacturer’s warranty covering material or manufacturing defects. It does not cover breakage due to improper speed, torque settings, or overuse.