1PG 3rd Year, Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Genesis Institute of Dental Sciences & Research, Ferozepur, Punjab, India
2HOD, Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Genesis Institute of Dental Sciences & Research, Ferozepur, Punjab, India
3Professor, Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Genesis Institute of Dental Sciences & Research, Ferozepur, Punjab, India
4PG 3rd Year, Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Genesis Institute of Dental Sciences & Research, Ferozepur, Punjab, India
5Senior Lecturer, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Genesis Institute of Dental Sciences & Research, Ferozepur, Punjab, India
*Corresponding Author: Himani Bhat, PG 3rd Year, Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Genesis Institute of Dental Sciences & Research, Ferozepur, Punjab, India
Online Published on 19 February, 2026.
The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the accuracy of Working Length determination using CBCT and Electronic Apex Locator in the presence of various irrigating solutions.
Sixty extracted permanent teeth with single root canals were used for this study. The actual working length was first determined visually using a magnifying loupe. The teeth were then scanned using Cone Beam Computed Tomography, and measurements were recorded using Ez3D-I software. Samples were divided into four groups based on the irrigant used, and working length was assessed using the Root ZX mini-apex locator. Measurements from CBCT and the apex locator were compared with the actual anatomic working length, and the data was statistically analysed.
In this study, 2% chlorhexidine provided the most accurate electronic working length (mean deviation 0.20 mm), while 3% sodium hypochlorite showed the least accuracy (0.70 mm deviation). Statistical analysis (one-way ANOVA and paired t-tests) revealed significant differences, particularly with sodium hypochlorite, which notably reduced accuracy. CBCT measurements closely matched the visual method, showing no significant variance. Overall, chlorhexidine and saline proved more reliable for electronic working length determination.
Electronic working length accuracy is influenced by the irrigant used, with chlorhexidine and saline showing the best results, while sodium hypochlorite resulted in the greatest deviation from the actual length. CBCT proved reliable but it’s use is limited by radiation concerns.
