Influence of Open Apex on Working Length Determination Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography and Apex Locators: A Comparative In Vitro Study

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this study is to assess the effect of open apex on working length (WL) determination with aid of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and electronic apex locators (EALs). Methods Thirty-two extracted human mandibular premolars were selected, and apical 5 mm was removed. Root canals were prepared from the apical to the coronal direction of the canal using peeso reamers up to size 5 (retrograde) to simulate open apex. The samples were analyzed by CBCT, and WL was established (CWL) by a radiologist. An endodontist prepared the access cavities, and visual working length (VWL) was recorded. The samples were embedded in a freshly mixed alginate mould up to cementoenamel junction. Each root canal length was measured with two different EALs—Root ZX mini and i Root. The measurements were repeated 3 times by using a digital caliper, and the mean was recorded by the endodontist who was blinded to the results of the CWL. The recorded data was statistically analyzed using the SPSS software. Results The results of this study showed statistically significant difference between VWL and i Root, CWL and i Root, and Root ZX mini and i Root (p < 0.05). Amongst EALs, a superior accuracy was noted for Root ZX mini than as compared to i Root. However, no statistically significant difference was seen between Root ZX mini and CWL (p > 0.05). Conclusion The present study showed that CWL is as accurate and reliable as VWL which is the gold standard. Amongst EALs, Root ZX mini performed more accurately than i Root. Preexisting CBCT scans should be used as an advantage in determining WL.