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Comparison of three imaging techniques for assessing endodontic working length
B M Griffiths1, J E Brown, A T Hyatt
1Department of Conservative Dentistry, Dental Hospital, University College Hospital, London, UK.
International Endodontic Journal
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Radiography (Rd) and Xeroradiography (Xr) provided more accurate endodontic working length estimations than Radiovisiography (RVG) systems. RVG images, especially positive prints, were less accurate and harder to interpret.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Endodontics
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Accurate endodontic working length estimation is crucial for successful root canal treatment.
- Traditional imaging techniques like radiography (Rd) and Xeroradiography (Xr) have been used, with newer digital systems like Radiovisiography (RVG) emerging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the accuracy of endodontic working length estimation using radiography (Rd), Xeroradiography (Xr), and Radiovisiography (RVG).
Main Methods:
- An in-vitro study using extracted single-rooted teeth mounted in wax.
- Three imaging techniques (Rd, Xr, RVG positive/negative) were used to image files placed in the root canals.
- Six observers measured file tip to apical foramen distances on 200 images, accounting for magnification.
Main Results:
- Inaccuracy of clinical significance (> 0.5 mm) was observed in 6% of Rd and Xr measurements.
- RVG negative and positive images showed higher inaccuracies (19.2% and 32.3%, respectively).
- 14% of RVG images were too poorly defined for assessment.
Conclusions:
- Xeroradiography (Xr) and conventional radiography (Rd) yielded the most accurate working length estimations.
- First-generation RVG systems, particularly positive prints, were the least accurate and most difficult to interpret for endodontic working length determination.