Determination of Efficacy of Different Apex Locators

Abstract

Background: A correct working length is a critical factor for the endodontic success. The present study
assessed efficacy of Root ZX, Apex ID apex locator and Sybron Endo’s Mini Apex locator.
Materials and Method: The present study was conducted on45 mandibular molar teeth. In all teeth working
length was assessed with 10 K file. Samples were divided into three groups. In Group I Root ZX, in group
II Apex ID apex locator and in group III Sybron Endo’s Mini Apex Locator was used. Based on the position
of the file tip to the radiographic apex on the IOPA radiograph, the samples were categorized using the
following scoring criteria. Acceptable = 0–1 short, short = >1 mm short and Long/Beyond = Beyond the
apex.
Results: Reading with root ZX was acceptable in 13, short in 1 and beyond in 1 case, ID apex locator was
acceptable in 12, short in 3 and beyond in 0, Endo’s Mini Apex Locator was acceptable in 11, short in 2 and
beyond in 2 cases. The difference was significant (P< 0.05).
Conclusion: Authors found that Root ZX was more effective than ID apex locator and Sybron Endo’s Mini
Apex Locator in accessing working length.