Comparison between electronic and radiographic method for the determination of root canal length in primary teeth

Resumo

There are few researches in literature that mention
the use of the apex locator in deciduous teeth and working length
is obtained through radiographies. Objective: The purpose of this
research was to compare the radiographic and the electronic method
to obtain the working length in deciduous molars. Material and
methods: Twelve molar teeth were used. The specimens in the
visual method had their root length measured through the passive
insertion of a 10 K-file with a silicone stop within root canal until
its tip was seen at the apical foramen. The working length was
measured through radiographs or using the apex locator Root ZX
II. The mean between the examiners was submitted to the variance
analysis (ANOVA). Results: Statistically significant differences were
found between the visual method and the radiographic method
(p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the working
length measurements in visual method and those obtained with
the apex locator (p = 0.1319). Conclusion: The apex locator is
indicated as a clinical implementation for endodontic treatment
in primary teeth.