An in vivo radiographic evaluation of the accuracy of Apex and iPex electronic Apex locators

Brazilian Dental Journal

Laura Paludo²  Sophia Lopes De Souza²  Marcus Vinícius Reis Só¹  Ricardo Abreu Da Rosa¹  Fabiana Vieira Vier-pelisser¹  Marco Antônio Húngaro Duarte¹ 

[1] ,Cruzeiro do Sul UniversityCaxias do Sul RS ,Brazil

关键词: electronic apex locator;    radiographic apex;    working length;   

DOI  :  10.1590/S0103-64402012000100010

来源: SciELO

【 摘 要 】

The aim of this study was to evaluate in vivo the clinical applicability of two electronic apex locators (EALs) - Apex (Septodont) and iPex (NSK) - in different groups of human teeth by using radiography. The working lengths (WLs) of 100 root canals were determined electronically. The EAL to be used first was chosen randomly and a K-file was inserted into the root canal until the EAL display indicated the location of the apical constriction (0 mm). The K-file was fixed to the tooth and a periapical radiograph was taken using a radiographic film holder. The K-file was removed and the WL was measured. The same procedure was repeated using the other EAL. Radiographs were examined with the aid of a light-box with lens of ×4 magnification by two blinded experienced endodontists. The distance between the file tip and the root apex was recorded as follows: (A) +1 to 0 mm, (B) -0.1 to 0.5 mm, (C) -0.6 to 1 mm, (D) -1.1 to 1.5 mm, and (E) -1.6 mm or greater. For statistical purposes, these scores were divided into 2 subgroups according to the radiographic apex: acceptable (B, C, and D) and non-acceptable (A and E). Statistically significant differences were not found between the results of Apex and iPex in terms of acceptable and non-acceptable measurements (p>0.05) or in terms of the distance recorded from file tip and the radiographic apex (p>0.05). Apex and iPex EALs provided reliable measurements for WL determination for endodontic therapy.

【 授权许可】

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