Jove
Visualize
Contact Us
JoVE
x logofacebook logolinkedin logoyoutube logo
ABOUT JoVE
OverviewLeadershipBlogJoVE Help Center
AUTHORS
Publishing ProcessEditorial BoardScope & PoliciesPeer ReviewFAQSubmit
LIBRARIANS
TestimonialsSubscriptionsAccessResourcesLibrary Advisory BoardFAQ
RESEARCH
JoVE JournalMethods CollectionsJoVE Encyclopedia of ExperimentsArchive
EDUCATION
JoVE CoreJoVE BusinessJoVE Science EducationJoVE Lab ManualFaculty Resource CenterFaculty Site
Terms & Conditions of Use
Privacy Policy
Policies

Related Experiment Videos

The electronic determination of working length.

N J McDonald1

  • 1Department of Endodontics, Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, Dental School, University of Maryland.

Dental Clinics of North America
|April 1, 1992
PubMed
Summary

Apex locators are valuable tools in endodontic therapy, but they do not replace the need for diagnostic radiographs. Proper use and calibration are essential for accurate working length determination, achieving 83-93% accuracy.

Related Concept Videos

You might also read

Related Articles

Articles linked to this work by shared authors, journal, and citation graph.

Sort by
Same author

Microcomputed tomographic evaluation of mandibular molars with single distal canals.

General dentistry·2015
Same author

Real time workload classification from an ambulatory wireless EEG system using hybrid EEG electrodes.

Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Annual International Conference·2009
Same author

Effect of ProRoot MTA mixed with chlorhexidine on apoptosis and cell cycle of fibroblasts and macrophages in vitro.

International endodontic journal·2005
Same author

Apical extrusion of thermoplasticized obturating material in canals instrumented with Profile 0.06 or Profile GT.

Journal of endodontics·2004
Same author

Anticholinergic therapy for chronic asthma in children over two years of age.

The Cochrane database of systematic reviews·2003
Same author

Evaluating IL-2 levels in human pulp tissue.

Journal of endodontics·2002

Area of Science:

  • Endodontics
  • Dental Imaging
  • Diagnostic Tools

Background:

  • Electronic digital imaging systems enhance radiographic image manipulation and storage.
  • Apex locators are adjuncts in endodontic therapy, not replacements for radiographs.
  • Radiographs are crucial for visualizing tooth anatomy and establishing a baseline for apex locator use.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the accuracy and proper usage of current apex locator technologies in endodontic therapy.
  • To emphasize the indispensable role of diagnostic radiographs alongside apex locators.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current apex locator types (resistance, impedance, frequency-based).
  • Discussion of essential calibration and usage protocols for each type.
  • Emphasis on the necessity of high-quality diagnostic radiographs.

Main Results:

  • Current apex locators demonstrate accuracy rates between 83.0% and 93.4% when used correctly.
  • Specific usage guidelines (e.g., dry canals, proper file fit, avoiding metallic contact) are critical for accuracy.
  • Frequency-based units offer ease of use but require consistent calibration and battery maintenance.

Conclusions:

  • Apex locators are accurate and useful adjuncts when used with proper technique and calibration.
  • Diagnostic radiographs remain essential for comprehensive treatment planning and providing baseline data.
  • Strict adherence to procedural guidelines ensures optimal performance and accuracy of apex locators.

Related Experiment Videos