Abstract
AimsThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of a new-generation electronic apex locator (iPex) to determine working length in primary teeth with or without root resorption as compared with the conventional radiographic method.Materials and methodsA sample of 30 primary posterior teeth which are indicated for pulpectomy were selected for the study. After obtaining the informed consent from the parents, local anesthesia was administered. Access cavity was prepared with no.10 round bur. Initial exploration of the canals was done with no.10 K-file. Pulp was extirpated with a barbed broach followed by thorough irrigation of the canals with 0.9% saline. Initially, working length was obtained with iPex (new-generation by Nakanishi International) apex locator using no.10 K-file, which was then compared with conventional radiographic method (Ingle’s method).ResultsA total of 65 canals were available for the measurement. The data were analyzed using Statistical Analysis system and t-tests were carried out. There was no statistically significant difference found when using iPex apex locator for working length determination as compared with that of conventional radiographic method (p = 0.511).ConclusionWorking length determined by iPex apex locator is comparable with that of conventional radiographic method, hence, can be used as an alternative in determining the working length of primary teeth.How to cite this articleBhat KV, Shetty P, Anandakrishna L. A Comparative Evaluation of Accuracy of New-generation Electronic Apex Locator with Conventional Radiography to determine Working Length in Primary Teeth: An in vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(1):34-36.
Highlights
IntroductionBiomechanical preparation, irrigation, and obturation form the key triad for a successful endodontic therapy which depends on the precise working length
Working length determined by iPex apex locator is comparable with that of conventional radiographic method, can be used as an alternative in determining the working length of primary teeth
Biomechanical preparation, irrigation, and obturation form the key triad for a successful endodontic therapy which depends on the precise working length
Summary
Biomechanical preparation, irrigation, and obturation form the key triad for a successful endodontic therapy which depends on the precise working length. It is important to estimate the exact root canal length during endodontic therapy to avoid injury to the succedaneous tooth bud.[1] Use of conventional radiography as a method of determining the working length has shortcomings, and it depends on a child’s cooperation, the operator’s proficiency, and exposure to recurrent radiation. Electronic apex locators are useful when the apical portion of the canal is obscured by certain anatomic structures, such as impacted teeth, tori, the zygomatic arch, excessive bone density, overlapping roots, or shallow palatal vaults. Electronic apex locators do not produce pain, help to reduce the treatment time, and help avoid unnecessary radiation which makes it more superior in pediatric endodontic procedures.[2] they are recommended for endodontic treatment in children
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