A Global Overview on Electronic Apex Locator Use From 1968 to 2023: A Bibliometric Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: This bibliometric review analyzed the research trends and main characteristics of articles related to Electronic Apex Locators (EALs). METHODS: The search was conducted in November 2023 on the Web of Science Core Collection. Narrative and systematic reviews, observational and intervention studies, laboratory, and clinical studies were included. Two researchers selected the articles and extracted the number of citations, year of publication, journal, study design, theme, country, continent, institutions, author, and keywords. Collaborative networks were generated using the VOSviewer software. The relationship between data were determined by Spearman's correlation. RESULTS: The search resulted in 374 articles, of which 294 were included. Most cited article had 175 citations. The most prevalent journal was the Journal of Endodontics (n = 84). The predominant study design was the laboratory-based (n = 223). The predominant theme was the EALs accuracy (n = 175). Piasecki L was the author with the highest number of articles (n = 11). Only 8.16% of the studies were conducted in deciduous teeth. The country with the most studies was Brazil (n = 46). Asia (n = 107) was the continent with the highest number of publications. There was a weak positive correlation between the number of citations and impact factor (rho = .294), and a strong negative correlation between citations and year of publication (rho = -.710). CONCLUSIONS: The majority of articles were laboratory-based studies conducted on permanent teeth, focusing on the accuracy of EALs. Future studies should prioritize research on deciduous teeth, systematic reviews, and, notably, clinical trials.

Evaluation of changes in root canal length and accuracy of the electronic apex locator during different stages of endodontic treatment and retreatment.

This study evaluated changes in the root canal length (RCL) and the accuracy of the electronic apex locator (EAL) during the different stages of endodontic treatment and retreatment. Fifty-six mesial root canals of mandibular molars were selected. The actual root canal length (AL) of the canals was obtained by inserting a size 15 hand file up to the apical foramen, under magnification. The electronic lengths were obtained at the "APEX" mark of Root ZX II, using an alginate model. Both measurements were performed at three different stages of the initial root canal treatment-unflared, flared, and concluded-and at two stages of retreatment, after achieving patency and repreparation. Data were statistically analyzed and the significance level established was 5%. All stages produced a significant reduction in the AL (p < 0.05). The greatest variation was observed between the unflared-flared stages (0.2 mm) and between concluded-patency stages (0.09 mm), with no difference between them (p > 0.05). The accuracy of Root ZX II was negatively affected after achieving patency, presenting statistically significant difference compared to the other stages (p < 0.05). A significant reduction in the RCL was observed along the different stages of endodontic treatment and retreatment. The EAL was accurate to measure the root canals in most stages, except after achieving patency for endodontic retreatment. Determining and monitoring the RCL is an essential step towards a favorable prognosis, since it reduced along the different stages evaluated. Root ZX II was not accurate for endodontic retreatment.

Clinical Accuracy and Precision of 3 Multifrequency Electronic Apex Locators Assessed through Micro-Computed Tomographic Imaging.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to compare the in vivo accuracy and precision of 3 electronic apex locators (EALs) in determining the position of the major foramen using micro-computed tomographic (micro-CT) technology. METHODS: After access preparation of 23 necrotic or vital teeth from 5 patients, canals were negotiated, and hand files were used to determine the position of the foramen with 3 EALs: Propex Pixi (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland), Woodpex III (Woodpecker Medical Instrument Co, Guilin, China), and Root ZX II (J Morita, Tokyo, Japan). After fixing the silicon stop to the file, teeth were extracted and scanned in a micro-CT device with and without the instrument inserted into the canal. Data sets were coregistered, and the accuracy and precision of the EALs were determined at a tolerance level of ±0.5 mm by measuring the distance from the tip of the instruments to a tangential line crossing the margins of the foramen. Statistical comparisons were performed using Friedman with post hoc related samples sign and Spearman tests (α = 5%). RESULTS: A significant difference was detected comparing the accuracy of Root ZX II (100%), Woodpex III (86.96%), and Propex Pixi (52.17%) (P < .05). There was a lack of significance in the relationship between the pulp status and the accuracy of the tested EALs (P > .05). Propex Pixi was significantly less precise than Root ZX II (P < .05), whereas no difference was found between Woodpex III and Root ZX II or Propex Pixi (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: EALs presented similar precision, but Woodpex III and Root ZX II showed better accuracy to determine the position of the apical major foramen than Propex Pixi.

Are electronic apex locators accurate in determining working length in primary teeth pulpectomies? A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies.

BACKGROUND: The lack of a well-defined apical constriction in primary teeth raises concerns regarding the accuracy of electronic apex locators (EALs) for measuring working length. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the accuracy of EALs in determining working length in primary teeth pulpectomies. METHODS: Two reviewers searched ten databases up to September 2021. Clinical studies evaluating the accuracy of the electronic measurement of working length in primary teeth pulpectomies were included. Studies without a comparison group, with samples smaller than ten root canals, and that did not use a multiple frequency EAL were excluded. A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the paired differences in mean lengths between measurements obtained by electronic and comparative methods. In addition, a meta-analysis of proportion was applied according to the level of difference between the measures. The risk of bias and applicability of the studies were assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. The certainty of evidence was assessed with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. RESULTS: Twenty-nine studies were included in the qualitative analysis and twenty-three in the quantitative analysis. The methods of comparison for the electronic measurement were the radiographic method, radiovisiographic, scanning electron microscopy, and direct visualization. The meta-analysis showed that the electronic measurement tends to be shorter than radiographic measurement, while the other methods showed no difference. The proportion analysis showed a higher pooled proportion of difference values between electronic and comparative measurements within -0.5 to +0.5 mm (69.31%). The certainty of the evidence suggested very low confidence in estimating the outcome. DISCUSSION: The results of this review denote a good performance of the EALs in determining working length in primary teeth pulpectomies. However, these results are based on clinical studies with low methodological quality and high heterogeneity, which require careful interpretation for clinical practice. CONCLUSIONS: Although the results suggest acceptable accuracy of EALs in determining working length in primary teeth pulpectomies, the low quality of the included studies and the very low certainty of the evidence require clinicians to interpret these results with caution. More robust evidence is required to support that these devices are accurate for primary teeth. REGISTRATION: CRD42021277414 (PROSPERO).

How is working length determination taught? A survey to assess what is recommended in undergraduate Schools of Dentistry in Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: To analyse what are the methods for working length (WLD) determination taught for undergraduate students in Brazilian Dental Schools and the perception of professors about the use of electronic WL determination in the clinical practice. METHODS: An online questionnaire with eighteen closed questions was sent to 209 Schools of Dentistry in Brazil using the Google Forms Platform. The questionnaire was structured to analyse the perception of professors in the department of endodontics about the method of working length determination taught in undergraduate courses in Dentistry. The data collected in the questionnaires were transferred to an Excel® spreadsheet and analysed using absolute and relative frequencies. The non-parametric Mann-Whitney test was used to compare groups. RESULTS: Of the 209 schools contacted, 41 (19.61%) returned answers to the questionnaire. According to professors, electronic working length (WL) determination had a shorter length of time to perform it (p < .001), WL measurement accuracy (p < .001) and ease of performance (p < .001). Professors felt safer when maintaining patency when using electronic WL determination (p = .0020). CONCLUSIONS: Both radiographic and electronic methods of WL determination are taught in Brazilian Schools of Dentistry. The electronic method was used more frequently, especially in undergraduate clinical courses.

Effect of Materials For Interim Restoration on Estimation of Working Length Using Electronic Apex Locator: in vitro Study / Efecto de Materiales Para Restauración Intermedia sobre la Estimación de la Longitud de Trabajo Endodóntico Utilizando Localizador Electrónico de Foramen: Estudio in vitro

ABSTRACT: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate measurement accordance using an electronic apex locator for estimation of working length in endodontics when different restorative materials for interim crown restoration are utilized. For this study, 13 single-rooted premolars with endodontic occlusal access cavity were prepared. To establish the working length of each tooth, these were mounted in alginate and with the help of an electronic foramen locator and endodontic file K-file # 15, the working length was established. This length was later compared to the estimated working lengths using different intermediate restoration materials. These materials were: Superior Chemfil, Ketac ™ Molar Easymix and Filtek z350 resin. In the electronic measurements, an acceptable tolerance range of variation up to ± 0.5 mm was considered. Highest discrepancies were considered erroneous. For these measurements, central tendency and dispersion were analyzed. The Bland-Altman method was used, and the ANOVA test with a significance level of p <0,05 for statistic difference. Regarding measurements' acceptability and the type of interim restoration material utilized, 7 were acceptable, and 6 were unacceptable for ChemFil Superior, 12 were acceptable and 1 unacceptable for Ketac™ Molar Easymix, and 11 were acceptable and 2 were unacceptable for Filtek Z350 composite resin. The average difference between all electronic measurements was 0.29 (± 0.44). Chemfill Superior showed the most prominent variation between measurements 0.58 (± 0.45). When using an electronic apex locator, measurements showed statistically significant differences depending on the interim restoration material of choice (p<0.05). In conclusion, the measurement accordance using electronic apex locator to estimation the working length is higher, however the electronic estimation of working length can be significatively affected by the material chosen for interim temporary restoration.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio in vitro, fue evaluar la concordancia de las estimaciones de longitud de trabajo mediante localizador electrónico de foramen, utilizando diferentes materiales de restauración intermedia coronaria. Para tales fines fueron preparados 13 premolares uniradiculares con cavidad de acceso oclusal endodóntico. Para establecer la a longitud de trabajo de cada diente, estos fueron montados en alginato y con la ayuda de un localizador electrónico de foramen y lima de endodoncia K-file #15 fue establecida la longitud de trabajo. Esta longitud fue comparada posteriormente con las longitudes de trabajo estimadas utilizando diferentes materiales de restauración in- termedia. Estos materiales fueron: Chemfil superior, Ketac™ Molar Easymix y resina Filtek z350. En las mediciones electrónicas, se consideró un rango de tolerancia aceptable de variación hasta ± 0,5 mm. Las discrepancias mayores se consideraron erróneas. Se calcularon medidas de tendencia central y la dispersión. Se utilizó el método de Bland- Altman y la prueba ANOVA con un nivel de significancia de p <0,05. Con respecto a la aceptabilidad de las mediciones y el tipo de material de restauración intermedia, 7 fueron aceptables y 6 fueron inaceptables para ChemFil Superior, 12 fueron aceptables y 1 inaceptable para Ketac ™ Molar Easymix, y 11 fueron aceptables y 2 fueron inaceptables para el compuesto Filtek Z350 resina. La diferencia promedio entre todas las mediciones electrónicas fue de 0,29 (± 0,44). Chemfil Superior mostró la mayor variación entre medicio- nes 0,58 (± 0,45). Las mediciones mostraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas dependiendo del material de restauración intermedio elegido (p <0,05). En conclusión, la concordancia en la estimación de la longitud de trabajo usando localizador electrónico de foramen es alta, sin embargo, puede verse afectada significativamente por el material de obturación intermedio.

A laboratory study of the accuracy of three electronic apex locators: influence of embedding media and radiographic assessment of the electronic apical limit.

AIM: To evaluate several factors that might interfere with the use of electronic root canal length measurement devices (ERCLMDs) in a laboratory setting, including two different embedding media (alginate and electroconductive gel), three different types of devices and the radiographic view on the assessment of the electronic readings. METHODOLOGY: Thirty single-rooted extracted human mandibular premolars were selected. After access and canal pre-flaring, a size 10 K-file was inserted in the canal up to the major apical foramen under magnification (×10), and this length was recorded as the actual length (AL) of the canal. Teeth were mounted on a specific endodontic training kit platform (ProTrain). Two different embedding media (electroconductive gel and alginate) and three different ERCLMDs: Apex ID (SybronEndo, Glendora, CA, USA), CanalPro Apex Locator (Coltene-Endo, Cuyahoga Falls, OH, USA) and the Root ZX II (J. Morita, Tokyo, Japan), were tested. Following the measurement at the 0.5 mark of each ERCLMD using alginate, two periapical radiographs (bucco-lingual and proximal views) were taken. The difference between the electronic readings and the AL, as well as the distance from the file tip to the apex of the roots on the radiographs, was calculated. Data were analysed statistically (two-way anova, Tukey's and chi-squared tests) at 5% significance level. RESULTS: The incidence of over-extended readings was significantly greater (P < 0.05) when using the ProTrain electroconductive gel, except for Root ZX II at the 0.5 mark. Root ZX, CanalPro and Apex ID had similar accuracy when the 0.0/APEX mark was used to locate the foramen. For the radiographic method, no difference was found between the devices or radiographic views. CONCLUSION: Compared with alginate, the conductive gel of the ProTrain kit negatively affected most of the electronic readings. The three evaluated ERCLMDs had similar accuracy in locating the apical foramen when using the mark 0.0/APEX and alginate as the embedding media. Although the ProTrain platform allows radiographs to be exposed in both bucco-lingual and proximal views, no difference was found between the views when evaluating the apical limit provided by the 0.5 mark in mandibular premolars embedded in alginate.

The accuracy of electronic apex locators for determining working length: An in vitro study with artificial teeth.

This study aimed to determine the accuracy of four electronic apex locators (EALs) (I-Root, Propex Pixi, Novapex and Bassi iRoot Apex), using artificial mandibular and maxillary permanent molars. The root length (RL) from 40 artificial teeth was initially determined with Kerr hand files. Then, the electronic RL were obtained for the same root canals with each EAL, and the results were compared with those obtained using hand files. The accuracy of the EALs was determined through analysis of the divergences observed in relation to the lengths obtained with files. All EALs were effective for determining the RL in the artificial teeth, showing results similar to those obtained by hand. The Bassi iRoot Apex had higher accuracy (96.7%) than the Propex Pixi (89.1%) and Novapex (85.8%) (P < 0.05). Based on the results, all EALs tested had a similar performance, and artificial teeth may be used to determine the accuracy of these devices.

Determinación de la Longitud de Trabajo Mediante Localizador Electrónico de Foramen Apical y CBCT a Través del Software 3D Endo de Dentsply Sirona: Estudio Comparativo in vitro / Determination of Working Length Using Electronic Locator for Apex and CBCT with 3D Endo Dentsply Sirona Software: Comparative in vitro Study

RESUMEN: En la historia de la Endodoncia, se han utilizado distintos métodos para determinar la longitud de los canales radiculares, como sensación táctil y radiografías. Últimamente, han adquirido gran importancia los localizadores apicales electrónicos, por su gran precisión. Actualmente se ha incorporado el uso de imagenología con Cone Beam. Debido a que existen muchas formas de medir dicha longitud, es necesario ponerlos a prueba y ver si se asemejan a la técnica gold estándar definida en la literatura como el localizador electrónico de foramen apical. El propósito de esta investigación es determinar si existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la medida de la longitud de trabajo entre el localizador electrónico de foramen apical, y el uso de Cone Beam procesado con el software 3D endo de Dentsply Sirona. Para esto, se seleccionaron 30 premolares extraídos; se les tomó un Cone Beam para ser analizados con el software 3D endo y medir la longitud de trabajo. Una vez hecho esto, se realizó manualmente cavidad de acceso y se preparó el tercio cervical con fresas Gates Glidden 1 y 2; luego, los dientes fueron colocados en un modelo Pro Train, que asemejó las propiedades de los dientes en la cavidad oral, para permitir el uso del localizador electrónico de foramen y determinar la longitud de trabajo. Una vez obtenidos los datos, fueron comparados a través del Test de Proporciones (p=0.05 hipotético), dando como resultado p=0,2 lo que indica que no existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la medida de la longitud de trabajo entre ambos métodos.

ABSTRACT: Various methods have been used in the history of endodontics, to determine the length of the root canals (working length), such as tactile sensation and X-rays. Recently, apical locators have acquired importance, due to their precision. The use of Cone Beam has now also been incorporated. Because there are many ways to measure this length, it is necessary to test them and see if they resemble the standard gold measurement technique defined in the literature as the electronic apex locators. The purpose of this research is to determine whether there are statistically significant differences in the working length between the electronic apex locators, and the use of Cone Beam processed with the Software 3D Endo by Dentsply Sirona. For this, 30 extracted pre-molars were selected, for Cone Beam tomography and 3D endo Software analysis, to measure the working length. Once this was carried out, cavity preparation was performed manually, and the cervical third approached with gates glidden drills 1 and 2. Subsequently, the teeth were placed in a Pro Train model, which resembled the properties of the teeth in the oral cavity, to allow the use of the electronic apex locators to determine the working length.Once the data were obtained, they were compared through the proportions Test (p = 0.05 hypothetical), resulting in p = 0.2, indicating that there are no statistically significant differences in the working length between the two methods.

In Vivo Evaluation of 3 Electronic Apex Locators: Root ZX Mini, Apex ID, and Propex Pixi.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this in vivo study was to compare the accuracy of 3 electronic apex locators (EALs) (Root ZX mini [J Morita Corp, Tokyo, Japan], Apex ID [SybronEndo, Glendora, CA], and Propex Pixi [Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland]) to determine the working length. METHODS: Thirty single-rooted human teeth that were scheduled for extraction were selected for the study. Electronic measurements were performed with the 3 EALs. After the teeth had been extracted, a #10 K-file was used to determine the actual working length, which was established at 0.5 mm short of the major foramen. The data were statistically analyzed with analysis of variance (α = 0.05). RESULTS: No significant differences were found among the experimental groups (P > .05). The mean distance from the actual working length to the file tip was 0.163 ± 0.032 mm when Root ZX mini was used, 0.343 ± 0.032 mm for Propex Pixi , and 0.012 ± 0.008 mm for Apex ID. CONCLUSIONS: Under the in vivo conditions of this study, no statistically significant differences were observed among the 3 EALs.

Medición electrónica de la longitud de trabajo en forámenes inmaduros simulados: un estudio ex vivo / Electronic working length measurement in teeth with simulated immature foramens: an ex vivo assay

Objetivo: Evaluar ex vivo la confiabilidad de la medición electrónica de la longitud de trabajo obtenida por dos localizadores apicales en forámenes inmaduros simulados. Materiales y métodos: 20 incisivos centrales superiores humanos extraídos con conductos rectos se dividieron en dos grupos de 10 cada uno. En el grupo A, los conductos y los forámenes se prepararon paralelos hasta un calibre #100. En el grupo B, se procedió de manera similar al grupo A, pero los forámenes se prepararon divergentes. Las raíces se recubrieron con una membrana de intestino porcino simulando el ligamento periodontal y se insertaron individualmente en 20 orificios preparados en la tapa de una cuba de acrílico que contenía hueso bovino particulado humedecido. La tapa fue reposicionada en la cuba cuidando que las raíces quedaran sumergidas en el hueso. Mediante una lima K de tercera serie se determinó la longitud de trabajo con los localizadores apicales RootZx y Mini Apex. Luego, se retiró la tapa con los dientes y las membranas, se los preparó hasta un calibre #120 y se midieron nuevamente. Se repitió el procedimiento preparando los forámenes hasta un calibre #140. Se determinó la longitud de trabajo cuando la pantalla de los localizadores apicales marcaba 0,5. Resultados: Las diferencias entre localizadores apicales no fueron significativas, pero sí lo fueron entre ambos tipos de forámenes al prepararlos hasta un calibre #140. Conclusiones: La medición electrónica ex vivo en dientes con forámenes inmaduros simulados fue confiable excepto cuando se prepararon con calibre #140 (AU)

Aim: To evaluate ex vivo the reliability of two apical electronic localizers to determine the working length in teeth with simulated immature foramens. Materials and methods: Twenty extracted upper central human incisors with straight root canals were assigned to two groups of 10 teeth each. In group A, the canal walls and foramens were prepared parallel to a size #100. In group B, the canals were prepared similar but the foramens were divergent. Each root was surrounded with a porcine intestine membrane simulating the periodontal ligament and then placed through holes prepared on the cover of an acrylic box filled with humid particulate bovine bone. The cover holding the teeth was repositioned taking care that the roots were submerged into the particulate bone. A third series K-file along with Root Zx or Mini Apex apical electronic localizers was used to determine the electronic working length. The cover with the teeth and membranes was then removed, the canals were over-prepared to a #120 size file and the electronic working length was measured, then the foramens were widened to a #140 size and the measurements were repeated. The working length was determined when the apical electronic localizers showed 0.5 on the screen. Results: No significant differences were observed between the apical electronic localizers, while significant differences were detected between both types of foramens when prepared to a size #140 (AU)

Un modelo didáctico ex vivo para la medición electrónica de la longitud de trabajo en la enseñanza de grado y posgrado / An ex vivo didactic model for electronically determination of the working length in undergraduate and graduate training

El propósito de este artículo es presentar un modelo didáctico ex vivo para la determinación electrónica de la longitud de trabajo, mediante el empleo de elementos con propiedades similares a los tejidos perirradiculares humanos. El modelo es especialmente aplicable a la enseñanza de grado y posgrado y permite observar paso a paso, en el interior del conducto radicular, de qué manera se desarrolla el proceso de medición electrónica (AU)

The purpose of this article is to describe an ex vivo didactic model to determine the working length using elements with properties similar to periradicular human tissues that are available. The model is specifically designed to be used by undergraduate and graduate students and allowed step by step visual observation of the operation of electronic canal length measuring devices (AU)

Longitud de trabajo electrónica con Raypex 6 en conductos de molares inferiores / Electronic work length with Raypex 6 in lower molars canals

Resumen: Objetivo: Evaluar la precisión de Raypex 6 para localizar el foramen y ubicarse en la zona cemento dentina conducto (CDC) en conductos de molares inferiores por medio de diafanización. Material y métodos: 52 conductos permeables de 20 molares inferiores extraídos inmersos en alginato fueron utilizados. Se realizó abertura coronaria, localización, permeabilización e irrigación con hipoclorito de sodio al 5.25%. Con el localizador electrónico Raypex 6 se obtuvo conductometría electrónica. Se introdujo lima tipo K #15 o 20 en cada muestra que tenía el clip labial inserto en alginato. La pantalla del dispositivo indicó la posición del foramen apical en la barra roja y se procedió a reajustar la posición de la lima K en las dos primeras barras amarillas y la lima se fijó con resina acrílica. Los dientes se diafanizaron por medio de la técnica de ácido nítrico y se mantuvieron en salicilato de metilo. Las muestras se analizaron con microscopio clínico a 16x y de manera subjetiva se asignó el valor de preciso, si la punta de la lima se ubicó entre 0 a -0.5 mm, fuera o positivo (+) si la lima estuvo +0.1 mm o más y corto o negativo (-) si fue de -0.51 mm o menos con respecto al foramen apical. Resultados: De las 52 muestras analizadas, se encontraron 40 precisas, siete largas y cinco cortas. La estadística descriptiva demostró 76.9% de precisión. Conclusión: La longitud de trabajo electrónica con Raypex 6 mostró una adecuada precisión en conductos mesiales de molares inferiores.

Abstract: Objective: To assess precision of Raypex 6 to locate foramen and establish placement in the canal -dentin-cement (CDC) area in lower molar canals by means of diaphanization. Material and methods: 52 permeable canals from 20 extracted lower molars immersed in alginate were used. Crown opening, location, permeabilization and irrigation with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite were performed. Electronic conductometry was obtained with Raypex 6 electronic locator. A K #15/20 file type was inserted in all samples which had labial clip inserted in alginate. The device's screen indicated position of the apical foramen in the red bar, K files position was readjusted in the first two yellow bars, the file was then fixated with acrylic resin. Teeth were diaphanized by means of the nitric acid technique; teeth were kept in methyl salicylate. Samples were analyzed with clinical microscope at 16x, they were subjectively assigned a value called precise when the tip of the file was located at 0-0.5 mm, external or positive (+), when the file was +0.1 mm or more, and short or negative (-) when it was -0.51 mm or less with respect to the apical foramen. Results: Of the 52 analyzed samples, 40 were found to be precise, seven long and five short. Descriptive statistics showed 76.9% precision. Conclusion: Electronic working length with Raypex 6 showed suitable precision in mesial canals of lower molars.

Evaluación del ajuste apical y la adaptación de los conos de gutapercha ProTaper Next, ProTaper Gold, WaveOne Gold y Reciproc Blue en conductos simulados instrumentados con estos sistemas / Evaluation of the apical tugback and adaptation of ProTaper Next, ProTaper Gold, WaveOne Gold and Reciproc Blue gutta-percha cones in simulated canals prepared with these systems

Objetivo: Evaluar el ajuste y la adaptación apical de los conos de gutapercha de cuatro diferentes sistemas de instrumentación y obturación endodóntica en conductos curvos simulados. Materiales y métodos: Se emplearon 4 Endo Training Blocks (Dentsply Sirona) con conductos curvos simulados, instrumentados hasta el límite de trabajo, fijado en el orificio de salida del conducto. Con ese propósito se empleó un tope metálico confeccionado ad hoc, ajustado en la concavidad de la salida del conducto, a fin de asegurar el límite de la instrumentación en todos los bloques de trabajo. El tope metálico se mantuvo en la posición por medio de una morsa de mesa. Los conductos fueron permeabilizados con una lima tipo K #10 (Dentsply Sirona). A continuación, se procedió con los protocolos de instrumentación de los sistemas por evaluar en cada Endo Training Block. Se emplearon los sistemas ProTaper Next (Dentsply Sirona), ProTaper Gold (Dentsply Sirona), WaveOne Gold (Dentsply Sirona) y Reciproc Blue (VDW) de acuerdo con las especificaciones del fabricante (grupos 1, 2, 3 y 4 respectivamente). Los conductos fueron irrigados con agua destilada a cada cambio de instrumento y al finalizar la preparación, y secados con conos de papel. Luego se evaluaron, en el respectivo Endo Training Block, el ajuste y la adaptación apical a la longitud de trabajo de 10 conos de gutapercha del sistema correspondiente. Para la evaluación del ajuste, se introdujeron los conos de gutapercha en el conducto simulado respectivo y se elevaron ambos hasta 10 cm de altura, manteniéndolos durante 10 segundos. Cuando se conservaban en esa situación, se consideraba que el cono ajustaba; si se desprendían antes de ese lapso, se establecía la falta de ajuste. Así mismo, se constató en cada caso su adaptación apical a la longitud de trabajo con un microscopio clínico operativo a 8,5X. Para la evaluación total se consideraron las siguientes categorías: 1, el cono de gutapercha llegaba a la longitud de trabajo y ajustaba; 2, el cono de gutapercha llegaba a la longitud de trabajo, pero no ajustaba; 3, el cono de gutapercha no llegaba a la longitud de trabajo; y 4, el cono de gutapercha sobrepasaba la longitud de trabajo. Resultados: Entre los grupos 1, 3 y 4 no se observaron variables intrasistemas de ajuste y adaptación apical a la longitud de trabajo. En el grupo 2 sí las hubo, pero la diferencia entre grupos no fue significativa (P>0,05). Conclusiones: De los cuatro sistemas utilizados, en tres de ellos el empleo de un cono único de gutapercha garantizó, en todas las pruebas, la adaptación y el ajuste a la longitud de trabajo (AU)

Aim: To evaluate in the tugback and apical adaptation at the working length of four different mechanized systems gutta-percha cones in simulated curved canals. Materials and methods: Four Endo Training Blocks (Dentsply Sirona) with simulated curved canals were instrumented up to the working length established at the orifice located in the canal exit. A metal stop was adjusted in the concavity present at the exit of the canal to ensure the working length during instrumentation in all blocks. The metal stop was maintained using a table walrus. Canal patency was achieved with a #10 K file (Dentsply Sirona). Then the instrumentation protocols for the different systems were performed in each Endo Training Block. ProTaper Next (Dentsply Sirona), ProTaper Gold (Dentsply Sirona), WaveOne Gold (Dentsply Sirona) and Reciproc Blue (VDW) were used according to the manufacturers' instructions (groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively). The canals were irrigated with distilled water between instruments and at the end of the preparation and dried with paper points. Then, the tugback and the apical adaptation at the working length of 10 gutta-percha cones of each system were evaluated in the corresponding Endo Training Block. For the tugback analysis, the gutta-percha cones were introduced in the respective simulated canal and both were raised up to 10 cm in height, holding them for 10 seconds. If the cones remained intact in their position, it was considered that the cone tugback was appropriate, if the cones were detached, a lack of tugback was considered. Likewise, a clinical operating microscope at 8.5X was used to confirm the apical adaptation to the working length in each case. For the overall evaluation the following categories were considered: 1, the gutta-percha cone reached the working length with tugback; 2, the gutta-percha cone reached the working length without tugback; 3, the gutta-percha cone did not reach the working length; 4, the gutta-percha cone exceeded the working length. Results: In three groups 1, 3 and 4 they were not found intra-systems variables in the tugback at the working length. In one group there were observed intra-systems variables but the differences between groups were not statistically significant (P>0.05) (AU)

The Accuracy of a New Cone-beam Computed Tomographic Software in the Preoperative Working Length Determination Ex Vivo.

INTRODUCTION: This study investigates the accuracy of 3D Endo software (Dentsply Sirona, Salzburg, Austria) to determine the working length when using preoperative cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) scans of extracted teeth, compared with conventional CBCT software and an electronic apex locator (EAL). METHODS: CBCT scans of 30 premolars were obtained. Using OnDemand3D software (Cybermed, Seoul, Korea), the measurement obtained from the coronal reference to the apical foramen (AF) was recorded as the conventional CBCT length. Then, using 3D Endo software (Dentsply Sirona), the suggested length (3D-SL) and the operator-adjusted length (3D-OL) were obtained. Teeth were accessed, and the actual length was measured. Finally, the teeth were embedded in alginate to obtain the electronic length (EL) using the EAL Root ZX (J Morita, Tokyo, Japan). The means of the absolute values and the percentages of distribution of the tested measurement methods were compared to the actual length. RESULTS: No difference was found regarding the mean measurements (analysis of variance, P > .05). All the CBCT measurements presented a high reliability (Dahlberg's formula). The measurements within a ±0.5-mm range from the AF were 86.6% for the 3D-SL, 80% for the 3D-OL and EL, and 73.3% for the CBCT length. The EL presented significantly fewer underestimated measurements (P < .05). The 3D-OL and 3D-SL presented significantly fewer measurements beyond the AF (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: The preoperative working length determination using 3D Endo was reliable and similar to conventional CBCT software. However, the combined use of CBCT with an EAL is required to increase the accuracy in the location of the AF.

In vivo assessment of accuracy of Propex II, Root ZX II, and radiographic measurements for location of the major foramen.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this in vivo study was to assess the accuracy of 2 third-generation electronic apex locators (EALs), Propex II (Dentsply Maillefer) and Root ZX II (J. Morita), and radiographic technique for locating the major foramen (MF). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-two premolars with single canals that required extraction were included. Following anesthesia, access, and initial canal preparation with size 10 and 15 K-flex files and SX and S1 rotary ProTaper files, the canals were irrigated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite. The length of the root canal was verified 3 times for each tooth using the 2 apex locators and once using the radiographic technique. Teeth were extracted and the actual WL was determined using size 15 K-files under a × 25 magnification. The Biostat 4.0 program (AnalystSoft Inc.) was used for comparing the direct measurements with those obtained using radiographic technique and the apex locators. Pearson's correlation analysis and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used for statistical analyses. RESULTS: The measurements obtained using the visual method exhibited the strongest correlation with Root ZX II (r = 0.94), followed by Propex II (r = 0.90) and Ingle's technique (r = 0.81; p < 0.001). Descriptive statistics using ANOVA (Tukey's post hoc test) revealed significant differences between the radiographic measurements and both EALs measurements (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Both EALs presented similar accuracy that was higher than that of the radiographic measurements obtained with Ingle's technique. Our results suggest that the use of these EALs for MF location is more accurate than the use of radiographic measurements.

Evaluación de un modelo de capacitación preclínica en el uso de los localizadores electrónicos del foramen, por alumnos de grado de endodoncia / Evaluation of a preclinical training model of undergraduatestudents in the use of electronic foramen locatorsin endodontics

Objetivo: evaluar la capacitación y los resultados del uso de localizadores del foramen en un curso preclínico destinado a alumnos de grado de la Escuela de Odontología de la Universidad del Salvador / AsociaciónOdontológica Argentina, entre 2005 y 2016. Materiales y métodos: Se emplearon 2053 incisivos, caninos y premolares inferiores y superiores humanos extraídos. Los dientes se montaron de modo tal que sus raí-ces quedasen sumergidas en una solución salina, utilizando dos métodos: a) tubos de plástico, b) modelos que simulan la arcada dentaria. Se realizaron los accesos coronarios al conducto radicular de forma convencional y se prepararonlos tercios cervical y medio. Para determinar la longitud de trabajo, se introdujo una lima tipo K de calibre acorde con el conducto radicular, ajustando en ella el terminal del localizador electrónico del foramen. El terminal labial se sumergió en la misma solución salina en que se encontraban las raíces dentarias. En la mayoría de los dientes se empleó, parala determinación, la técnica de ingreso, y en los restantes, la de regreso. El nivel de penetración se estableció con la señal lumínica y/o sonora de 0,5. Se ajustó el tope del instrumento al borde de referencia y se obtuvo una imagen radiográfica periapical del diente evaluado. Se retiró el instrumento del conducto radicular y se midió desde su punta hasta el tope respectivo. Las medidas obtenidas con los localizadores electrónicos del foramen se compararon con las conductometrías radiográficas, considerando una tolerancia de 0,5 mm. Para la evaluación estadística, se tomó en cuenta el cálculo de intervalo deconfianza (95 por ciento) realizado a partir de la distribución binomial.Resultados: De los 2053 dientes en los cuales se determinó la longitud de trabajo, 1743 (84,9 por ciento) fueron consideradas medidas correctas, y 310 (15,1 por ciento), incorrectas...

Aim: To assess the training process and results of the useof electronic apex locators in an Aim: To assess the training process and results of the useof electronic apex locators in an undergraduate preclinicalcourse for students from the University del Salvador / AsociaciónOdontológica Argentina between 2005 and 2016.Materials and methods: Two thousand fifty threeextracted human incisors, canines, maxillary and mandibularbicuspid teeth were used. The teeth were mounted withthe roots submerged in saline solution using two methods: a) plastic tubes, b) models simulating the dental arch. Conventionalcoronal access to the root canal was performedand the cervical and middle portions of the root canal wereflared. To determine the working length a K-file with a caliberaccording to the root canal was selected for each tooth andintroduced in the root canal with the clip adjusted in the file.The labial clip was immersed in the model saline solution. Inthe majority of the teeth the advanced and withdrawal techniquewas employed. The level of penetration was establishedusing the light and/or the acoustic signal at 0.5. Then, the rubberstop was adjusted to the reference line and a radiographwas obtained. The instrument was removed and measuredfrom its tip to the rubber stop. The measurements obtainedwith the electronic apex locators were compared with thoseobtained from the X rays considering a tolerance of 0.5 mm.For the statistical evaluation, 95% confidence intervals werecalculated using the binomial distribution.Results: Out of 2053 teeth in which the working lengthwas determined, 1743 (84.9%) were considered correct measurementsand 310 (15.1%) incorrects...

Longitud de las piezas dentales en Costa Rica

El profesional en Endodoncia se plantea el dilema de hasta qué punto deben penetrar los instrumentos dentro del conducto. Por esta razón, la longitud real de las diferentes piezas dentales en distintas etnias y zonas geográficas de un mismo país es un dato importante y característico. Este estudio se realizó por medio de un análisis tomográfico en piezas extraídas. Se tomó una muestra representativa de las siete provincias de Costa Rica, utilizando 1470 raíces de 980 piezas dentales, 70 piezas superiores e inferiores, mostrando 210 raíces en su totalidad por provincia. Se logró determinar las longitudes reales de las diferentes piezas dentales de los costarricenses. De acuerdo con la metodología utilizada, la muestra fue probabilística de tipo estratificado, con el fin de asegurar una representación de cada una de las provincias del país; se recolectaron piezas dentales en clínicas dentales privadas y públicas. Los resultados reflejan piezas dentales con medidas que se asemejan a otros estudios realizados en otras partes del mundo.

The great dilemma for the practitioner in endodontics is how far to penetrate with the instruments within the duct. For this reason, the real longitude of the different teeth in various ethnias and geographic zones of the same country is an important and characteristic data. This research was done through a tomographic analysis of the extracted teeth. A representative sample of the seven provinces of Costa Rica was taken, using 1470 roots of 980 teeth, 70 superior teeth and inferior, giving 210 roots in total per province. It was possible to determine the real longitudes of the different teeth of the costaricans. According to the methodology used, the sample was probable of the stratified type with the objective goal of assuring a representation of each one of the provinces of the country; the dental pieces were collected through private and public dental clinics. The results reflect teeth with similar measurements to other studies done in other parts of the world.

Influence of Blood on the Accuracy of Raypex 5 and Root ZX Electronic Foramen Locators: An In Vivo Study

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate in vivo the accuracy of the Raypex 5 and Root ZX electronic foramen locators (EFLs) in the presence of blood in the root canal space. Forty single-canal teeth scheduled for extraction were selected. Access cavity was prepared and coronal enlargement was carried out. Approximately two drops of blood were collected by finger prick and injected into the root canal space. The electronic working length (EWL) of each tooth by each device was established twice before (NB group) and after (WB group) injecting blood into the root canal. The tooth was extracted and the actual working length (AWL) was determined. Data were analyzed using McNemar's test. The accuracy rates of Raypex 5 and Root ZX within 0.5 mm in the NB group were 88.9% and 91.5%, with 83.3% and 86.2% in the WB group, respectively. There were no significant differences between the accuracy of each EFL in the two groups (p>0.05). Considering the NB and WB groups, there were no statistically significant differences in the accuracy of the EFLs (p>0.05). The presence of blood in the root canal space did not influence the accuracy of the EFLs.

Resumo Este estudo objetivou avaliar in vivo a precisão dos localizadores foraminais eletrônicos (EFLs) Raypex 5 e Root ZX em presença de sangue no canal radicular. Foram utilizados 40 dentes unirradiculares destinados a extração. Foi preparada cavidade de acesso e feita ampliação coronária. Cerca de duas gotas de sangue obtidas por punção digital foram injetadas no canal. O comprimento eletrônico de trabalho (EWL) foi medido duas vezes antes (Grupo NB) e depois (Grupo WB) da injeção do sangue. O dente foi extraído e o comprimento real de trabalho (AWL) foi determinado. Os dados foram analisados com o teste de McNemar. As taxas de precisão a ±0,5 mm de Raypex 5 e Root ZX foram 88,9% and 91,5% no Grupo NB, e 83,3% e 86,2% para o Grupo WB, respectivamente. Não houve diferença significativa entre a precisão de cada um dos EFLs em ambos os grupos (p>0,05). Considerando os grupos NB e WB, não houve diferença significativa entre as precisões dos EFLs (p>0,05). A presença de sangue no canal radicular não influencou a precisão dos EFLs.

Comparison of two negative pressure systems and syringe irrigation for root canal irrigation: an ex vivo study.

AIM: To compare in a laboratory study two negative pressure systems and syringe irrigation, regarding the delivery of a contrast solution (CS) to working length (WL) and into simulated lateral canals and the effective volume of irrigant aspirated during negative pressure irrigation. METHODOLOGY: Twenty single-canaled incisor training models were constructed with six simulated lateral canals each (2, 4 and 6 mm to WL) and a size 40, 0.04 taper apical size canal. Each model underwent all irrigation procedures (EndoVac at WL (EndoVac-0) and WL-2 mm (EndoVac-2), iNP needle with negative pressure (iNPn) and syringe irrigation with the iNP needle (iNPs) and a 30-G side-slot needle placed at WL (SI0) and WL-2 (SI2) mm in a crossover design. CS was delivered at 4 mL min(-1) for 60 s with a peristaltic pump and a recovery device collected the volume (in mL) of irrigant suctioned by the negative pressure groups. The irrigation procedures were digitally recorded, and a still image of the 60-s time-point of irrigation was evaluated for CS distance to WL (in millimetres) after irrigation and penetration into lateral canals (3-point scale). Statistical tests used were Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's test. RESULTS: EndoVac-0, iNPn and iNPs had median distances of CS to WL of 0 mm, followed by SI0 (0.2 mm), SI2 (0.7 mm) and EndoVac-2 (1.7 mm). There were no significant differences between EndoVac-0, iNPn, iNPs and SI0, but these were significantly different to SI2 and EndoVac-2 (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the volume of CS delivered by syringe irrigation and that collected by iNPn (4 mL), but these were significantly greater than EndoVac-0 (2.8 mL, P < 0.001) and EndoVac-2 (2.85 mL, P < 0.001), which were not different to each other (P = 1.0). The irrigation procedures were ineffective at penetration into lateral canals. CONCLUSION: iNPn, EndoVac-0, iNPs and SI0 achieved greater irrigant penetration to WL. iNPn was able to collect a median volume of CS (4 mL) similar to that delivered by syringe irrigation (iNPp, SI0 and SI2). An adequate irrigant penetration into lateral canals could not be achieved by any of the systems.