Basic ResearchImpact of Apical Patency on Accuracy of Electronic Apex Locators: In Vitro Study
Section snippets
Teeth Selection and Preparation
Forty-three extracted human mandibular molars with completely formed roots, 2 separate mesial canals and foramina (Vertucci type IV), and a single distal canal were included in the study. Teeth were collected and subjected to 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) for disinfection and then stored in normal saline (0.9% NaCl) until used. Examination of root surfaces and apical regions was done under a dental operating microscope (Labomed; Labo America, Fremont, CA) at ×25 magnification to detect
Measurement Error of the 2 Apex Locators:
Either before or after blockage, statistical analysis showed that Root ZX (P value < .05) had higher median error than Raypex 6 (P value < .001) (Fig. 1). In regard to the effect of blockage within each group, each group showed a statistically significant increase in median measurement error after blockage for Root ZX (P value < .05; effect size = 0.612) and Raypex 6 (P value < .05; effect size = 0.382).
Control Group
Negative control samples failed to record any readings with both apex locators. Therefore,
Discussion
Apex locators are considered the most reliable tool for working length determination; thus the ideal parameters for their accuracy must be addressed. In the present study the actual length was determined with the dental operating microscope (×25) because periapical radiograph is not an accurate tool for locating the working length, especially if the apical foramen opens laterally11.
Teeth were mounted in alginate to act as a conducting medium for the electric circuit between the file clip inside
Conclusion
On the basis of the results of this study, it can be concluded that root canal blockage has a negative influence on the accuracy of apex locators that was more pronounced in Root ZX than Raypex 6. Foraminal patency could be considered as a prerequisite for a reliable working length determination with apex locators.
Acknowledgments
The authors deny any conflicts of interest related to this study.
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