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[Determination of tooth length in endodontics]
P Surmont1, R D'Hauwers, L Martens
1Conserverende Tandheelkunde, Universiteit Gent.
Revue Belge De Medecine Dentaire
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Accurate tooth length determination is crucial for endodontic success. While X-rays offer a reliable method, emerging electronic apex locators present a growing challenge to radiographic techniques.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Endodontics
- Radiology
Background:
- Establishing the precise tooth length and working length is fundamental for successful endodontic therapy.
- Current methods for locating the apical constriction have limitations under all clinical conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss various methods for determining tooth length in endodontic treatment.
- To analyze factors affecting the accuracy of different tooth length determination techniques.
- To present a straightforward and accurate radiographic method for calculating tooth length.
Main Methods:
- Review and discussion of existing tooth length determination techniques.
- Elaboration of a specific radiographic calculation method.
- Consideration of the impact of electronic apex locators.
Main Results:
- No single system guarantees exact apical constriction location in all cases.
- Radiographic methods, particularly the elaborated X-ray calculation, provide a simple and accurate approach.
- Electronic devices are demonstrating increasing accuracy, potentially challenging radiographic methods.
Conclusions:
- Dentists currently rely heavily on X-rays for accurate tooth length determination.
- The accuracy of electronic apex locators is advancing, posing a future consideration for endodontic practice.