Abstract: Endodontic root canal glide path preparation is defined as a preliminary patency of the root canal from the canal orifice to the apical foramen, which provides a smooth tunnel for subsequent shaping files to follow, and it is considered as the foundation for a safer root canal preparation. Mechanical glide path instruments were firstly introduced to the market in 2009, and it is gradually popularized in clinic. In this paper, the categories, the mechanical properties of several glide path systems and their preparation outcomes are extensively reviewed.

Key words: root canal preparation, root canal glide path, Pathfile, mechanical properties