European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Introduction: One of the most crucial step in an endodontic treatment is Working Length (WL) determination. Nowadays, an important tool for WL determination is a conventional apex locator (EAL). In addition to the EAL, integrated apex locators (IAL) have also developed with the goal of minimising the steps and thereby enhancing the accuracy and reducing the overall time duration.Aims: To determine the accuracy of EAL and IAL for Working Length Measurement in Root Canal with Closed Apical Foramen. Methods and Material: After obtaining ethical clearance from the institution, a total of 20 patients were included. Procedure was explained to each patient and informed consent was obtained. After local anaesthesia administration, the access cavity preparation was done. The canals were located and the measurements were taken using both apex locators. Immediately after the measurements, the tooth was atraumatically extracted and the actual working length (AL) was then measured by observing under the operating microscope till the file was visible through minor foramen at the magnification of 16x. Silicon stopper was adjusted and the working length was again determined.
Statistical analysis: All the measurements were made and the analysis was done by one way ANOVA test. Results: The test results showed that there was no statistically significant difference between EAL & IAL in both groups when compared with the AL. Conclusions: Both the apex locators are found to be equally accurate in determining the working length, but mean value of Root ZX mini was found to be nearer to the AL.