An in vivo comparative evaluation to determine the accuracy of working length between radiographic and electronic apex locators.

BACKGROUND An in vivo comparative evaluation to determine the accuracy of working length between radiographic and electronic apex locators. AIM The study was aimed at evaluating the accuracy of electronic apex locator, to determine the working length of root canal, and to compare it with the radiographic method of working length determination. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 20 teeth selected for the study had to go for extraction because of periodontal or orthodontic reasons. Access cavity was prepared and the clinical estimated working length (CEWL) was determined with 10-25 no. K-file. A radiograph was then taken for determining the radiographic estimated working length (REWL). For electronic measurement of root canal, a 10 no. K-file was advanced toward the apex until it reached a 0.5 mm short of apex as shown by the apex locator. After fixing the file with a light cured composite, the tooth was extracted, the tooth surface was then longitudinally grounded using straight fissure diamond bur until the root canal and the tip of the file were visible. The distance of file from the minor constriction was measured with help of stereomicroscope. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS The chi-square test was used for statistical analysis for this study. RESULTS The chi-square test where χ² = 21.034 with P = 0.000 indicated that a significant difference exists among the groups. The electronic method showed highest number of cases with the working length at the minor constrictor. CONCLUSION The electronic method for determining the working length of root canal was found to be more accurate than the radiographic method.