Comparison of low versus full battery/charge conditions of electronic apex locators

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the accuracy of Root ZX mini and Raypex 6 electronic apex locators (EAL) in low versus full battery/charge conditions. Material and methods: Twenty-seven extracted human mandibular incisor teeth with mature apices were used in this study. Access cavities were prepared and all specimens were numbered. #10 K file was introduced into the root canal until its tip was visualized at the apical foramen and the actual working length (AWL) was determined..The EALs; battery-powered Root ZX mini (J. Morita Corp, Tokyo, Japan) and rechargeble Raypex 6 (VDW, Munich, Germany) are used in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions. The electronic working length (EWL) measurement differences with Root ZX mini and Raypex 6 in low and full battery/charge conditions were compared among the groups. Statistical analyses were performed by the Kruskal–Wallis test . Results: No significant difference was observed between low and full charge condition of Raypex 6 groups. Although there was no significant difference between Root ZX with full battery and Raypex 6 with full charge conditions, contrary root ZX mini with low battery showed significant differences in comparison with the other groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: Although the low battery condition of the EAL may cause deviations in measurements, the accuracy of the both battery powered and charged EALs presents acceptable results in low and full battery/charge conditions within the ±1 mm tolerance range. Nevertheless the low battery condition of the EAL may cause deviations in measurements. Key words: electronic apex locator, Raypex 6, root ZX mini, working length