title: The accuracy of three different electronic root canal measuring devices: an in vitro evaluation.
abstract: The main objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of the operator's experience level and pre-flaring on the accuracy of the results of three different brands of a new generation of root canal measuring devices, as well as the comparison among them. Extracted human teeth were prepared and then actual length and electronic length measurements were made by three different operators according to a double-blind technique. Three different operators performed electronic measurements on each specimen separately with three different electronic root canal measuring devices using in vitro models. Measurements were repeated by all operators after the pre-flaring. Taking the clinical tolerance of +/- 0.5 mm into account, there was no statistically significant difference between the accuracy of the instruments (P > 0.01). However, the results obtained from the Bingo electronic apex locator in pre-flared canals by the beginner operator were statistically significant (P < 0.01). All of the instruments had a clinically acceptable result at the tolerance of +/- 0.5 mm. If the instruments are used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, experience with electronic root canal measurement is not essential. However, the operator has to be more careful when working on pre-flared canals.
authors.affiliation: Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey. actinaz@yahoo.com
authors.forename: Ali Cemal
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Tinaz
authors.forename: Murat
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Maden
authors.forename: Cumhur
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Aydin
authors.forename: Emin
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Türköz
mesh_terms: D000704:Analysis of Variance; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003762:Dental Instruments; D003786:Dental Pulp Cavity / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004582:Electronics, Medical; D006801:Humans; D009811:Odontometry / Q000295:instrumentation*; D011897:Random Allocation; D018915:Root Canal Preparation / Q000379:methods; D019227:Tooth Apex / Q000033:anatomy & histology