An ex-vivo comparative evaluation of radiovisiography and apex locators in determining root canal length

To compare two methods of root canal length determination in permanent teeth under ex-vivo conditions.

Thirty premolars, extracted for orthodontic purposes were selected for the study. They were stored in saline solution. A periapical radiograph of each tooth was taken to ensure the absence of morphologic alterations or previous endodontic treatment. Access cavities were prepared using a round bur with a high-speed air-rotor. Root canal length was measured using digital radiography (RVG) and electronic apex locator (EAL) methods and was compared to actual length.

Apex locator gave significantly different results as compared to actual length but no significant difference was found between results of RVG and Apex locators.