Use of xeroradiography for length determination in endodontics

Files inserted and secured in forty-seven canals of maxillary and mandibular cadaver jaw sections were radiographed by conventional and xeroradiographic means, with the use of positioning devices and beam-guiding instruments. Measurements of the radiographically interpreted distance and the actual distance of files from the anatomic apex were made and compared. The data were analyzed by use of the Student's t test. There was no statistically significant difference between conventional and xeroradiographic methods. Xeroradiographs were subjectively judged better than conventional radiographs for maximum visualization of dental structures important to endodontics. Radiation levels needed for quality radiographs were found to be less with the xeroradiographic process.