Accuracy of two apex-locating handpieces in detecting simulated vertical and horizontal root fractures

The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro the effectiveness of TCM Endo V and Tri Auto ZX handpieces in detecting simulated horizontal and vertical root fractures. Forty extracted maxillary incisor teeth were randomly divided into 2 groups as simulated incomplete horizontal and vertical root fractures. Auto reverse and electronic apex locator functions of the 2 handpieces were used in both groups. Repeated measures of analysis test and pairwise comparisons were used for statistical analyses. Both handpieces detected the root fractures in an acceptable range. Furthermore, electronic apex locator function of both devices was more efficient in the process than auto reverse function.