Ex vivo accuracy of an apex locator using digital signal processing in primary teeth.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate ex vivo the accuracy an electronic apex locator during root canal length determination in primary molars.


METHODS
One calibrated examiner determined the root canal length in 15 primary molars (total=34 root canals) with different stages of root resorption. Root canal length was measured both visually with the placement of a K-file 1 mm short of the apical foramen or the apical resorption bevel, and electronically using an electronic apex locator (Digital Signal Processing). Data were analyzed statistically using the intraclass correlation (ICC) test.


RESULTS
Comparing the actual and electronic root canal length measurements in the primary teeth showed a high correlation (ICC=0.95).


CONCLUSIONS
The Digital Signal Processing apex locator is useful and accurate for apex foramen location during root canal length measurement in primary molars.
Leonardo
Mário Roberto
MR
Department of Pediatric Clinic, Preventive and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
da Silva
Lea Assed Bezerra
LA
Nelson-Filho
Paulo
P
da Silva
Raquel Assed Bezerra
RA
Lucisano
Marília Pacífico
MP
D003786:Dental Pulp Cavity / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D004581:Electronics / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D008963:Molar / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D009811:Odontometry / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012391:Root Resorption / Q000473:pathology; D012815:Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000295:instrumentation*; D019227:Tooth Apex / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D014094:Tooth, Deciduous / Q000033:anatomy & histology*