Rotation or reciprocation: a contemporary look at NiTi instruments?

Successful root canal therapy relies on many factors, not least of all mechanical shaping. Traditionally stainless steel files were used, but the introduction of nickel titanium (NiTi) alloys significantly broadened the instrument design options available to the practitioner. NiTi has allowed manufacturers to produce larger more flexible instruments that can be used mechanically which speeds up canal preparation and reduces fatigue. However, they are relatively expensive and are susceptible to fracture. Recently the use of NiTi instruments in a reciprocating motion have been introduced which claim to reduce the fracture incidence, and negate the need for a glide path.