SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1 of 68
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
1
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Presented by : Dr.Arbiya Anjum S
Electronic Apex Locator
“The use of electricity in the dental office has given dignity to the profession. The supplanting of the
pedal engine by the electric engine has done much toward elevating this part of the work from pure
mechanical labor. The dentist while operating the pedal engine differed but little from the performance
of a scissors grinder in the eyes of the public. The electric engine has added tone to the dental office
and dignity to the dentist.” - Custer
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
2
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Contents
• Introduction
• Significance of working length
• Anatomical considerations and terminology
• Drawbacks of radiographic method
• History
• Function
• Resistance based EAL
• Classification of EMRCLS
• Low frequency oscillation ERCLMDs
• High frequency devices (capacitance based)
• Capacitance and resistance ERCLMDs
• Voltage gradient ERCLMDs
• Two frequencies impedance difference ERCLMDs
• Two frequencies impedance ratio ERCLMDs
• Multi frequency ERCLMDs
• Adaptive apex locators
• Comparison of EALs with different working length
determination methods
• Comparison of different EALs
• Apex locator with other functions
• Accuracy of apex locators
• Root ZX more accurate
• Bingo 1020/Ray-Pex 4
• Review of literature
• Factors influencing the functioning of apex locators
• Problems associated
• Clinical acceptance
• Advantages and disadvantages
• Conclusion
• References
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
3
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Introduction
• Root canal treatment - confined within the root canal system
• Canal terminus must be detected accurately
• Precise control of working length during process must be maintained
• Several techniques have been used for determining the apical canal terminus including electronic
methods
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
4
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
4
Working length: “The distance from a coronal reference point to the point at
which canal preparation and obturation should terminate”
Significance
1) To determine the instrument length in the canal
2) Limits the depth to which the canal filling maybe placed
3) Limits the postoperative pain & discomfort , violate the apical zone
4) Determination of the success of treatment
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
5
Faculty of Dental Sciences
A = Root apex
B = Apical constriction
C = Root canal
D = Cementum
E = Dentine
F = Apical foramen
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
6
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
6Ingle 6th edition
Radiographic method drawbacks
•Bisecting angle technique - Canal length often varies greatly from actual working length
Long-cone paralleling technique - more accurate
2D representation of 3D object - interpreted differently between clinicians
Determining file position - decreased as the distance from the radiographic apex increased
Digital radiographic techniques do not permit the use of long-cone paralleling technique
Radiation exposure
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
7
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
7
(a) Superimposed files over each other in buccal and palatal canals
(b) The same image taken from another angle to see the files
separately
(a) Superimposition of the zygomatic arch over the roots of maxillary
molars
(b) Superimposition of the Torus Mandibularis over the roots of
mandibular premolars
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
8
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Tactile Method
• Seidberg et al. (1975) - 60% locate apical constriction
• Stabholz et al. 1995 - Pre-flaring , increase tactile sensation by up to 75%
• Topography of the AC can vary from tooth to tooth
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
9
Faculty of Dental Sciences
• The name ‘Electronic Apex Locator’ is not appropriate
• ‘Electronic Apical Foramen Locator’ or ‘Electronic Root Canal Length Measurement
Device’ (ERCLMD) as a generic name would be more appropriate
The fundamental operating principles of electronic
root canal length measurement devices IEJ, 39, 595–609, 2006
Why use an Apex Locator?
• 90% times, radiological Apex and actual Apex do NOT match!
• Schaeffer et al. 2005 - Major foramen deviates in the lingual/buccal plane, difficult to
locate its position even with multiplane angles
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
10
Faculty of Dental Sciences
•Use of electrical
circuits to measure WL
1918-Custer
•Electrical resistance
between PDL and
OMM measurimg
device
•Constant value at 6.5
kΩ
1942-Suzuki
•2nd person to report
electrical
measurement of root
canals
1960 - Gordon
•1st measured w/l in
patients -electrical
resistance
1962 - Sunada
• High frequency
waves and a
specially coated
file , in conductive
fluids
1979-Hasedgawa
•Voltage Gradient
Method
1983-
Ushiyama
•Filtering the
difference between
two direct
potentials after a 1
kHz rectilinear wave
Mid ’80s
•Multi-channel
impedance/ ratio
based technology
late ’80s by
Kobayashi
History
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
11
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Basic Physics And Current Electricity
• Current
• Resistance (R)
• Impedance
• Capacitor
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
12
Faculty of Dental Sciences
• Isolate the tooth well
• Dry the pulp chamber
• Now insert the snuggly fitting
• Attach file holder above the rubber stopper
• Choose longer files as we need some space for file holder
• Attach lip hook on the opposite side of the RCT tooth
• Now Put the Apex Locator on
• Start pushing the file in the canal
• Keep pushing , beep sound becomes continuous
• Now start withdrawing/ pulling
• Once we reach to 0.0 reading on the screen again, stop withdrawing
• Now adjust the silicone rubber stopper to the referral cusp or plane important
• Remove file holder
• Take the file out of the canal carefully without moving the rubber stopper
• Measure the length of the file
How to use?
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
13
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
13
Type Of Current
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
14
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
14
Resistance Type Apex Locators
Resistance value - 6.5 kilo ohms
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
15
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
15
• Increasing electrical impedance across the walls of the root canal, greater apically than coronally
• At CDJ, level of impedance drops
• Detects sudden change and indicates it on the analogue meter
• Insulated probes are utilized
Impedance Type Apex Locators
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
16
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
16
• Measures impedance of tooth at two different frequencies
• Coronal portion - constant
• As the file advances , the difference in the impedance value begins to differ greatly with maximum
differences at apical area
Frequency Type Apex Locators
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
17
Faculty of Dental Sciences
• Root canal meter
• Dentometer
• Endodontic meter, Endodontic meter S II
1st generation
• Sonoexplorer
• Endocater
• Apex finder
2nd generation
• Endex/ Apit
• Root ZX
• Apex finder AFA
3rd generation
• Bingo 1020/ Ray Pex 4
• Elements diagnostic unit
4th generation
• Additional mathematical processing
• Difficulty in dry canals
5th generation
• Adaptive type6th generation
Gordon MPJ, Chandler NP. Electronic apex locators. International Endodontic Journal, 37, 425–437, 2004.
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
18
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Nekoofar MH, Ghandi MM, Hayes SJ, Dummer PMH. The fundamental operating principles of electronic root canal
length measurement devices. International Endodontic Journal,2006;39:595–609.
Resistance based ERCLMDs
Low frequency oscillation ERCLMDs
High frequency devices
Capacitance and resistance ERCLMDs
Voltage gradient ERCLMDs
Two frequencies, impedance
difference ERCLMDs
Two frequency impedance ratio
ERCLMDs
Multifrequency devices
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
19
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Resistance based ERCLMDs
• The circuit between the endodontic file and the lip clip could be modelled by a Simple resistive
circuit
• Small DC current – applied
• Suchde &Talim 1977, Nekoofar et al. 2002, Pommer et al. 2002, Tinaz et al. 2002 - Not always
accurate when strong electrolytes, excessive hemorrhage, pus or pulp tissue was present
• Foster & Schwan 1989 - As soon as the file tip touches the electro conductive solution
(electrolyte), the DC voltage polarizes the tissues and varies its resistivity
Foster KR, Schwan HP. Dielectric properties of tissues and biological materials: a critical review. Crit Rev Biomed Eng. 1989;17(1):25-104.
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
20
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Low frequency oscillation ERCLMDs
• The structure of the endodontic instrument, canal and tissues have capacitive characteristics as well as
resistive characteristics
• Capacitance characteristics- variable with shape of canal
• Inoue (1972-73) - low frequency oscillation eg: SonoExplorer
• Assumption : Impedance value of gingival sulcus and OMM similar to PDL
Inoue N Dental "stethoscope" measures root canal.
Dent Surv. 1972 Jan;48(1):38-9.
.
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
21
Faculty of Dental Sciences
• SonoExplorer measures these two impedances and identifies the canal terminus when the readings
approach each other Individual calibration required
• Technique involved inserting a file with a silicon plastic-sheath into the gingival crevice of the tooth to be
measured and the sound produced was named the ‘gingival crevice sound’
• Then, the conventional endodontic file was inserted into the root canal and when the sound produced by
this file became ‘identical’ with the ‘gingival crevice sound’
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
22
Faculty of Dental Sciences
High frequency devices (capacitance based)
• Endocater in 1979 by Hasegawa
• High frequency reference circuit- 400 kHz
• Insulated files used- capacitance dependent only on surface area at tip
• Insulating coating-
– Narrow canals
– Curvatures
– Abrasion of coating
– Autoclaving modifies properties
Keller et al. 1991;Himel & Schott 1993
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
23
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Capacitance and resistance ERCLMDs
• Elements diagnostic unit ,2003
• Measured capacitance and resistance separately
• The device exploits a composite signal with two frequencies to measure the resistance and capacitance of the
system and then compares the measured values with its lookup table to diagnose the position of the file
• Vera and Gutierrez, 2004
– Withdraw to 0.5mm mark
– Dry access cavity
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
24
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Voltage Gradient ERCLMDS
• Ushiyama (1983) - Measure the variation in impedance when a file was inserted into the root canal
• Using bipolar electrodes and applying a 400-Hz AC, this device monitored variations in the impedance
value
• Sharp variation in the frequency determines apical constriction
• Accurate in presence of strong electrolytes
• Bipolar electrodes- bulky
Ushiyama J. New principle and method for measuring the root canal length. J Endod. 1983 Mar;9(3):97-104.
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
25
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Two frequencies impedance difference ERCLMDs
• Yamaoka, 1984 - Impedance value at 2 different frequencies
• Measures the Difference in frequencies proportional to difference in impedances
• Should be calibrated at coronal portion to determine dielectric constant of contents
• As file approaches the canal terminus, the value of the capacitance sharply increases probably because of
change in the morphology of the apical portion of the root
• Accurate irrespective of canal contents
• Not accurate in dry conditions
– Open electric circuit
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
26
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Two frequencies impedance ratio ERCLMDs
• 2 frequency single waves with different frequencies
• Kobayashi and Suda, 1994- ratio had definite value depending on frequency used, indicates location of file
in canal
• At positions close to the canal terminus, the capacitive characteristic of the impedance starts to appear
• The influence of the capacitance on the overall impedance is proportional to the frequency of the
measurement
Kobayashi C, Suda H. New electronic canal measuring device based on the ratio method. J
Endod. 1994 Mar;20(3):111-4.
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
27
Faculty of Dental Sciences
• At high frequencies (fH) the overall impedance value will be much lower than at low frequency (fL)
• That means, at the apical constriction the ratio tends towards a small value (Kobayashi & Suda 1994),
however, this phenomenon is related to the morphology of the constriction
• Lack of a constriction because of open apices (Hu¨lsmann & Pieper 1989, Goldberg et al. 2002) or an
impenetrable canal (Rivera & Seraji 1993, Ibarrola et al. 1999) have been reported as an impediment to
determine the position of the canal terminus (Oishi et al. 2002)
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
28
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Multi frequency ERCLMDs
• Endo Analyzer 8005, AFA Apex Finder
• 5 different frequencies
• Phase and amplitude of impedance
• The principle behind this device, is similar to the impedance ratio-based ERCLMDs
• It detects the canal terminus by determining a sudden change in the dominant characteristic
(capacitive or resistive) of the impedance
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
29
Faculty of Dental Sciences
• Welk et al. (2003) compared the accuracy of an impedance ratio-based ERCLMD (Root ZX) and the
Endo Analyzer
• Found that the mean distance between the electronically located canal terminus and minor diameter
was 1.03 mm for the Endo Analyzer and 0.19 mm for the Root ZX
• The ability of the devices to locate the apical constriction was 34.4 and 90.7% of cases respectively
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
30
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Adaptive apex locators
• Continuously defines humidity of the canal and immediately adapts to dry or wet canal
• It is possible to be used in dry and in additional wetted canals as well, canals with blood or exudates,
canals with still not extirpated pulp
Electronic Apex Locators - Journal of Dental Sciences & Oral Rehabilitation 2013;Jan-March
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
31
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Comparison of EALs with different working length
determination methods
Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part I: Different generations, comparison with other techniques
and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
32
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Effect of pulp conditions on EAL’s accuracy
• Pommer et al - EALs were more accurate in vital teeth than in necrotic ones
• Aksiue et al - Pulp condition did not affect the accuracy of EALs
• Renner et al - Accuracy of the Novapex apex locator in posterior teeth. Thirty-five vital teeth (68 canals)
and 42 necrotic teeth (76 canals) were studied
• It was demonstrated that pulp condition did not affect the accuracy of EALs
Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part II: Different generations, comparison with
other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad
Ziaei
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
33
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Effect of peri-apical conditions on EALs’ accuracy
• Piasecki et al - Ability of the Root ZX II to detect the apical foramen in teeth with apical
periodontitis
• Presence of defects in the pre-apical area did not affect the accuracy of the Root ZX II
Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part II: Different generations,
comparison with other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid
Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
34
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
34
• Tri Auto ZX : The Root ZX has been combined with a handpiece to measure canal length when a rotary file is used
• The handpiece uses nickel-titanium rotary instruments that rotate at 240 to 280 rpm
• Kobayashi et al. “to get the best results, it may be necessary to use some hand instrumentation” in combination with
the Tri Auto ZX, depending on the difficulty and morphology of the root canal being treated
• Tri Auto ZX - accuracy similar to the Root ZX of 95% ,
• Alves et al. - in vitro the capacity of the Tri Auto ZX to locate the AF following removal of root filling material during
root canal treatment it was accurate to 􀊶0.5 mm in more than 80% of teeth when used following removal of root filling
• Dentaport ZX comprised of two modules: the Root ZX and the Tri Auto ZX. The handpiece uses nickel-titanium rotary
instruments that rotate at 50 to 800 rpm
Combination of Apex Locator with Endodontic
Handpiece
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
35
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Combination of an apex locator and an electrical pulp tester also have been marketed- Elements
Diagnostic Unit
Other apex-locating handpieces:
1. Kobayashi et al. - New ultrasonic system SOFY ZX uses the Root ZX to electronically
monitor the location of the file tip during all instrumentation procedures, minimizes the
danger of over instrumentation
2. The Endy 7000
Efficacy of both the electronic apex locator (EAL) and auto apical reverse (AAR) functions of the
endodontic motor MM Control compared with Root ZX II
• No difference
• EAL function of MM Control presented a greater percentage of measurements >1.01 mm longer
than AL
• AAR function provided an acceptable apical limit in 83.3% of the cases for Root ZX and 77.8% of
the cases for MM Control
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
36
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
36
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
37
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Accuracy of apex locators
Determination of the Accuracy of 5 Electronic Apex Locators in the Function of Different
Employment Protocols Tiago Nepomuceno Oliveira
Regardless of the mechanism of the device, the best results were found when
electronic RCL measurement was performed at the AF
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
38
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Root ZX more accurate
• File away from apex- capacitance very high, ratio dependent on resistance, close to 1
• File near terminus- capacitance character increases, impedance proportional to frequency, ratio-
smaller value
• Dependent on presence of constriction
• Contents no influence
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
39
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Accuracy of Root ZX series electronic apex locators (EALs) for locating
the apical constriction -90.48% to 97.62%.
J Dent Sci 2009;4(2):75−80
• Root ZX reliably measured the canal lengths to within 0.31 mm,(2%
lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine, 5.25% NaOCl, RC Prep, (EDTA),
3% hydrogen peroxide, and Peridex
• Jenkins JA, Walker WA 3rd, Schindler WG, Flores CM. An in vitro evaluation of the accuracy of the Root ZX in the
presence of various irrigants. J Endod 2001;27(3):209–11.
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
40
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Gordon MPJ, Chandler NP. Electronic apex locators. International Endodontic Journal, 37, 425–437, 2004.
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
41
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Bingo 1020/Ray-Pex 4
• Fourth generation device ,two separate frequencies 400 Hz and 8 kHz similar to current third generation
units
• Manufacturers -combination of using only one frequency at a time and basing measurements on the
root mean square values of the signals increases the measurement accuracy and the reliability of the
device (Apex Locator Bingo – ‘1020’ 1999)
• Kaufman et al. 2002 - As reliable as the Root ZX and also user friendly
• Tinaz et al. (2002) - As accurate as the Root ZX in an in vitro study and easier for a beginner to use in
preflared canals
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
42
Faculty of Dental Sciences
• Root ZX, Elements Diagnostic Unit and Apex Locator, Mini Apex Locator, and Apex DSP - The Root ZX and
the Mini Apex Locator devices increased significantly the precision to determine the real working length
after the preflaring procedure
• ProPex and Apex Pointer can be used safely in working length determination of teeth with large
periapical lesions, which have persistent intracanal exudate
Calıskan MK, Kaval ME, Tekin U. Clinical accuracy of two electronic apex locators in teeth with large periapical lesions. International Endodontic Journal
Influence of Preflaring on the Accuracy of Length Determination With Four Electronic Apex Locators E´ ricson Janolio de Camargo JOE 2009
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
43
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Calcium hydroxide dressing residues after different removal
techniques affect the accuracy of Root-ZX apex locator
• Ability of several techniques to remove calcium hydroxide (CH) from the root canal and determined the
influence of CH residues on the accuracy of the electronic apex locator
• Proved that calcium hydroxide residues did influence the accuracy adversely
Restor Dent Endod. 2015 Feb; 40(1): 44–49
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
44
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Influence of GP solvents used in endo retreatment on
the effectiveness of the Root ZX 2 apex locator
• 30 human, single-rooted permanent teeth were divided into three groups according to the solvent
used: group OPO (orange peel oil, n = 10), group XYL (xylol, n = 10) and group CHL (chloroform, n =
10)
• Tooth length was established visually under 5× magnification with the aid of an optic microscope
and then compared with the corresponding electronic measurement with a safety margin of ±0.5
mm
ENDO (Lond Engl) 2010;4(4)263–266
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
45
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Size of the apical foramen
• The size of the apical foramen also has an influence on electronic length determination
• Huang (1987) - when the size of the major foramen was less than 0.2 mm measurements were not affected,
even in the presence of conductive irrigants, but as it increased above 0.2 mm measured distances from the
foramen increased
• The Root ZX apex locator is accurate under a diameter apical size of 0.6 mm. In the case of diameters of 0.7
to 0.8 mm, we must adjust the files to the foramen to maintain accuracy, whereas above size 0.9 mm the
device is not accurate
Critical Diameter of Apical Foramen and of File Size Using the Root ZX Apex Locator: An In
Vitro Study Manuela Herrera JOE 2011
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
46
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Canal patency
• Canal patency appears to be more important, as dentine debris may disrupt the electrical
resistance between the inside of the canal and the periodontal ligament
• Rivera & Seraji 1993 - Constant recapitulation and irrigation ensures accurate electronic length
readings during instrumentation
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
47
Faculty of Dental Sciences
In root fractures
• Any connection between the root canal and the periodontal membrane will be recognised by the EAL
• Excellent diagnostic tool in these circumstances
• The Root ZX was more accurate in the detection of horizontal root fractures than the other EALs tested
• In contrast, the three EALs were unreliable in detecting the position of vertical root fractures
• Root ZX showed significantly better scores than the other EALs for the detection vertical root fractures.
Accuracy of three different electronic apex locators in detecting simulated horizontal and vertical root fractures
Aust Endod J 2006; 32: 64–69
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
48
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part I: Different generations, comparison
with other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita
Vali, Farzad Ziaei
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
49
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Resorption
• Possible destruction of apical constriction and loss of surrounding PDL
• Goldberg et al- accuracy of Root ZX 62.7% with a clinical tolerance of ± 0.5mm
• Dependent on operator’s experience
• Shabahang et al- Root ZX locate root end consistently even with resorption lacunae
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
50
Faculty of Dental Sciences
• Early detection and immediate treatment
• Kaufman et al- clinically acceptable to within 0.06 to 0.60 mm short of external outline of
root apex
• Root ZX compared to the Sono Explorer Mark II Junior and Apit III in detecting (small and
large) root Perforations
• The mean distance of the tip of the file from the external outline of the root surface was
short for all instruments and clinically acceptable (0.06–0.25 mm)
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
51
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Primary teeth
• Katz et al- Root ZX detect canal length similar to actual length and radiographic film
• Quick, comfortable and accurate
• Tendency to slightly under estimate root length
• For the Root ZX, there was no significant difference between those teeth with root
resorption and those without
• However, for the Tri Auto ZX, there was a significant difference in the electronic
measurements between those teeth with root resorption and those without
Tosun G, Erdemir A, Eldeniz AU, Sermet U, Sener Y. Accuracy of two electronic apex locators in
primary teeth with and without apical resorption: a laboratory study. International Endodontic Journal
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
52
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part II: Different generations, comparison with other
techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
53
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
53
Conclusion: Mobile phones do not interfere with the EWL determination
Methods:
Effect of cellular phones on electronic working length (EWL) was determined in a closed room with poor
signal strength and polyclinic set up with good signal strength
(1) without cellular phone in room
(2) with cellular phone in physical contact with EAL
(3) with mobile phone in physical contact with EAL and in calling mode for 25 secs
(4) phone placed at a distance of 40 cm from the EAL
(5) phone placed at a distance of 40 cm and in calling mode for 25 secs
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
54
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
54
Conclusion: No difference in postoperative pain
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
55
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
55
Conclusion:
• Root ZX mini and Mini Apex Locator have similar accuracy to the Root ZX
• Function of the three apex locators was not affected by the type of endodontic solution used
5.25% Sodium Hypochlorite, 2.625% Sodium Hypochlorite, 1.0% Sodium Hypochlorite, 0.9% NaCl, 2%
lidocaine with 1:80,000 Epinephrine, and 2% Chlorhexidine
Root ZX mini and the Mini Apex Locator, in the presence of different endodontic solutions and compare
their performance to the Root ZX electronic apex locator
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
56
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part II: Different generations, comparison with other
techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
57
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
57
• CBCT images obtained at different FOVs with voxel sizes less than 0.3 mm3 performed similarly and
better than IOPA
• Apex locator measurements were better than CBCT and periapical images, and they correlated highly
with actual length measurements
• Absence of streak and beam hardening artifacts, motion artifacts, and anatomic noise from the opposing
jaw structures
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
58
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Immature apices
• EAL readings short of WL > size 50
• Blood in canal affects reading esp in canal sizes 60 or more when measured with smaller files
• Snug fitting file recommended
Kim Y-JA, Chandler NP. Determination of working length for teeth with wide or immature apices: a review. International Endodontic Journal, 46, 483–
491, 2013)
• Immature or ‘blunderbuss’ apices tend to give short measurements electronically (Berman &
Fleischman 1984, Wu et al.1992) due to the instruments not touching the apical dentine walls
(Hu¨lsmann & Pieper 1989)
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
59
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Pacemakers
• Woolley et al. 1974 - Electromagnetic interference from dental equipment including electronic apex
locators has the potential to interfere with cardiac pacemakers
• Miller et al - tested 14 electrical dental devices in vitro for their ability to interfere with 2 different
pacemakers , electrosurgical and ultrasonic instruments interfered with pacemaker activity,
whereas the other dental devices had no effect
• The two EALs(Root ZX Endo Analyzer) and one EPT(Endo Analyzer)used in this study did not
interfere with the functioning of any of the cardiac devices tested
Safety of Electronic Apex Locators and Pulp Testers in Patients With Implanted Cardiac Pacemakers or
Cardioverter/Defibrillators Brian L. Wilson JOE
Garofalo et al. - connected EALs directly to a pacemaker in an in vitro study and found that four of five
EALs showed no effect on cardiac pacemaker function
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
60
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
60
4 EALs tested did not interfere with the correct functioning of ICDs in vitro
More than 66.000 ICDs are implanted annually in the United States
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
61
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
61
Influence of Preflaring on the Accuracy of
Length Determination With Four Electronic
Apex Locators
De Camargo (2009) - root ZX and the mini
Apex locator devices increased significantly the precision
To determine the real working length after the preflaring
Procedure
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
62
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Problems associated
• Unstable electronic signal with rapid
wandering signs
– Metallic restorations or cervical leak
– Removing metallic restoration
– Blowing air into wet chamber
• Sharp drop of signal at apical foramen
– Very dry canals-no electric contact
– Drops abruptly when it reaches apical
foramen
– Apex- circuit breaks out
Kim E, Lee S. Electronic apex locator. Dent Clin N Am 48 (2004) 35–54
• Apex sign from beginning
– Severely bleeding or exudating canals
– Too much electrolyte in canal
– Irrigate gently with NaOCl, saline until
drainage stops
• Premature reading, open apex
– Sharp drop in impedance due to thin
dentinal walls
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
63
Faculty of Dental Sciences
Clinical acceptance
• Cost of the instruments and exposure to the technology are also factors
Gordon MPJ, Chandler NP. Electronic apex locators. International Endodontic Journal, 37, 425–437, 2004.
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
64
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
64
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
65
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
65
Conclusion
No individual technique is truly satisfactory in determining
endodontic working length
The CDJ is a practical and anatomic termination point for
the preparation and obturation of the root canal and this
cannot be determined radiographically
Modern electronic apex locators can determine this position
with accuracies of greater than 90% but still have some
limitations
Knowledge of apical anatomy, prudent use of radiographs
and the correct use of an electronic apex locator will assist
practitioners to achieve predictable results or as Lester
Ellsworth Custer would say... strict attention to business
is fundamental to success!
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
66
Faculty of Dental Sciences
• Ingle’s endodontics 6th edition
• The fundamental operating principles of electronic root canal length measurement devices IEJ, 39, 595–609, 2006
• The New Era of Foramenal Location Kenneth S. Serota, Jorge Vera, Frederick Barnett, Yosef Nahmias, oral health August
2004
• Gordon MPJ, Chandler NP. Electronic apex locators. International Endodontic Journal, 37, 425–437, 2004
• Nekoofar MH, Ghandi MM, Hayes SJ, Dummer PMH. The fundamental operating principles of electronic root canal
length measurement devices. International Endodontic Journal,2006;39:595–609
• Foster KR, Schwan HP. Dielectric properties of tissues and biological materials: a critical review. Crit Rev Biomed
Eng. 1989;17(1):25-104
• Inoue N Dental "stethoscope" measures root canal. Dent Surv. 1972 Jan;48(1):38-9
• Ushiyama J. New principle and method for measuring the root canal length. J Endod. 1983 Mar;9(3):97-104.
• Kobayashi C, Suda H. New electronic canal measuring device based on the ratio method. J Endod. 1994 Mar;20(3):111-4
• Electronic Apex Locators - Journal of Dental Sciences & Oral Rehabilitation 2013;Jan-March
• Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part I: Different generations, comparison with other
techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
References
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
67
Faculty of Dental Sciences
• Calıskan MK, Kaval ME, Tekin U. Clinical accuracy of two electronic apex locators in teeth with large periapical lesions.
International Endodontic Journal
• Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part II: Different generations, comparison with other
techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
• Erdemir A, Eldeniz AU, Ari H, Belli S, Esener T. The influence of irrigating solutions on the accuracy of the electronic apex
locator facility in the Tri Auto ZX handpiece. International Endodontic Journal
• Calcium hydroxide dressing residues after different removal techniques affect the accuracy of Root-ZX apex locator Restor
Dent Endod. 2015 Feb; 40(1): 44–49
• Influence of GP solvents used in endo retreatment on the effectiveness of the root zx 2 apex locator ENDO (Lond Engl)
2010;4(4)263–266
• Critical Diameter of Apical Foramen and of File Size Using the Root ZX Apex Locator: An In Vitro Study Manuela Herrera JOE
2011
• Accuracy of three different electronic apex locators in detecting simulated horizontal and vertical root fractures
Aust Endod J 2006; 32: 64–69
• Reliability of different electronic apex locators to detect root perforations in vitro A. Y. KAUFMAN, Z . F U S S, S . KEILA & S.
WAXENBERG
• Kim E, Lee S. Electronic apex locator. Dent Clin N Am 48 (2004) 35–54
© Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
68
Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
68

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (20)

ELECTRONIC APEX LOCATOR (EAL)
 ELECTRONIC APEX LOCATOR  (EAL) ELECTRONIC APEX LOCATOR  (EAL)
ELECTRONIC APEX LOCATOR (EAL)
 
Canal curvatures and determination method final
Canal curvatures and determination method finalCanal curvatures and determination method final
Canal curvatures and determination method final
 
Rotary endodontic instuments basic and divices
Rotary endodontic instuments basic and divicesRotary endodontic instuments basic and divices
Rotary endodontic instuments basic and divices
 
Regenerative endodontics
Regenerative endodonticsRegenerative endodontics
Regenerative endodontics
 
Mineral trioxide aggregate
Mineral trioxide aggregateMineral trioxide aggregate
Mineral trioxide aggregate
 
Anatomy of root apex
Anatomy of root apexAnatomy of root apex
Anatomy of root apex
 
Irrigation in endodontics
Irrigation in endodonticsIrrigation in endodontics
Irrigation in endodontics
 
Mineral Trioxide Aggregate vs. Biodentine
Mineral Trioxide Aggregate vs. Biodentine Mineral Trioxide Aggregate vs. Biodentine
Mineral Trioxide Aggregate vs. Biodentine
 
Mineral Trioxide Aggregrate seminar
Mineral Trioxide Aggregrate seminar Mineral Trioxide Aggregrate seminar
Mineral Trioxide Aggregrate seminar
 
2. speeds in dentistry
2. speeds in dentistry 2. speeds in dentistry
2. speeds in dentistry
 
Post and core
Post and corePost and core
Post and core
 
root canal sealers
root canal sealersroot canal sealers
root canal sealers
 
Biodentine (newer material in dentistry)
Biodentine   (newer material in dentistry)Biodentine   (newer material in dentistry)
Biodentine (newer material in dentistry)
 
Onlay
OnlayOnlay
Onlay
 
Nickel Titanium Instruments in Endodontics: Part 2
Nickel Titanium Instruments in Endodontics: Part 2Nickel Titanium Instruments in Endodontics: Part 2
Nickel Titanium Instruments in Endodontics: Part 2
 
Obturation technique
Obturation technique Obturation technique
Obturation technique
 
Perforation in Endodontics
Perforation in EndodonticsPerforation in Endodontics
Perforation in Endodontics
 
Techniques of Root Canal Obturation
Techniques of Root Canal ObturationTechniques of Root Canal Obturation
Techniques of Root Canal Obturation
 
Recent advances in endodontics
Recent advances in endodontics Recent advances in endodontics
Recent advances in endodontics
 
Bioceramic in dentistry ( Endodontics)
Bioceramic in dentistry ( Endodontics)Bioceramic in dentistry ( Endodontics)
Bioceramic in dentistry ( Endodontics)
 

Similar to Electronic Apex Locator

308-Article Text-1040-3-10-20200710 (1).pdf
308-Article Text-1040-3-10-20200710 (1).pdf308-Article Text-1040-3-10-20200710 (1).pdf
308-Article Text-1040-3-10-20200710 (1).pdf
DrMeenaKulkarni
 
Working length determination IN ENDODONTICS
Working length determination IN ENDODONTICSWorking length determination IN ENDODONTICS
Working length determination IN ENDODONTICS
Sanghmitra Suman
 
New project report
New project reportNew project report
New project report
Sai Printers
 
pdfslide.net_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptx
pdfslide.net_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptxpdfslide.net_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptx
pdfslide.net_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptx
JunaidKhan39032
 

Similar to Electronic Apex Locator (20)

308-Article Text-1040-3-10-20200710 (1).pdf
308-Article Text-1040-3-10-20200710 (1).pdf308-Article Text-1040-3-10-20200710 (1).pdf
308-Article Text-1040-3-10-20200710 (1).pdf
 
Working length Determination
Working length DeterminationWorking length Determination
Working length Determination
 
Working length determination IN ENDODONTICS
Working length determination IN ENDODONTICSWorking length determination IN ENDODONTICS
Working length determination IN ENDODONTICS
 
Working length
Working lengthWorking length
Working length
 
New project report
New project reportNew project report
New project report
 
Conference 2014-afmc-sheet-ver1
Conference 2014-afmc-sheet-ver1Conference 2014-afmc-sheet-ver1
Conference 2014-afmc-sheet-ver1
 
dokumen.tips_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptx
dokumen.tips_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptxdokumen.tips_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptx
dokumen.tips_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptx
 
UNIT 4.ppt
UNIT 4.pptUNIT 4.ppt
UNIT 4.ppt
 
Sensing and Actuation in Miniaturized Systems _ Midterm Presentation
Sensing and Actuation in Miniaturized Systems _ Midterm PresentationSensing and Actuation in Miniaturized Systems _ Midterm Presentation
Sensing and Actuation in Miniaturized Systems _ Midterm Presentation
 
Electronic apex locaters detailing in Endodontics
Electronic apex locaters detailing in EndodonticsElectronic apex locaters detailing in Endodontics
Electronic apex locaters detailing in Endodontics
 
pdfslide.net_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptx
pdfslide.net_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptxpdfslide.net_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptx
pdfslide.net_physics-investigatory-project-on-ohms-law-58f9dcf82b4f5.pptx
 
pdfslide-2301185666666151450-45bd63c9 (1).pdf
pdfslide-2301185666666151450-45bd63c9 (1).pdfpdfslide-2301185666666151450-45bd63c9 (1).pdf
pdfslide-2301185666666151450-45bd63c9 (1).pdf
 
MRI safety
MRI safety MRI safety
MRI safety
 
Resistive Displacement measurement
Resistive Displacement measurementResistive Displacement measurement
Resistive Displacement measurement
 
Physics Project.docx.pptx
Physics Project.docx.pptxPhysics Project.docx.pptx
Physics Project.docx.pptx
 
Types of transmission lines
Types of transmission linesTypes of transmission lines
Types of transmission lines
 
Apex locator / dental implant courses
Apex locator / dental implant coursesApex locator / dental implant courses
Apex locator / dental implant courses
 
Introduction to Power Electronics lecture1
Introduction to Power Electronics  lecture1Introduction to Power Electronics  lecture1
Introduction to Power Electronics lecture1
 
Chapter#4
Chapter#4Chapter#4
Chapter#4
 
Inline Testing of ERW Tubes Using Ultrasonic Guided Wave EMATs
Inline Testing of ERW Tubes Using Ultrasonic Guided Wave EMATsInline Testing of ERW Tubes Using Ultrasonic Guided Wave EMATs
Inline Testing of ERW Tubes Using Ultrasonic Guided Wave EMATs
 

More from Dr. Arbiya Anjum S

More from Dr. Arbiya Anjum S (11)

Vital Bleaching
Vital BleachingVital Bleaching
Vital Bleaching
 
Hybrid layer
Hybrid layerHybrid layer
Hybrid layer
 
Dentin Bonding agents
Dentin Bonding agentsDentin Bonding agents
Dentin Bonding agents
 
Master apical file size – smaller or larger: a systematic review of healing o...
Master apical file size – smaller or larger: a systematic review of healing o...Master apical file size – smaller or larger: a systematic review of healing o...
Master apical file size – smaller or larger: a systematic review of healing o...
 
Pulp Capping Agents
Pulp Capping AgentsPulp Capping Agents
Pulp Capping Agents
 
Occlusion in restorative dentistry
Occlusion in restorative dentistryOcclusion in restorative dentistry
Occlusion in restorative dentistry
 
Pathophysiology of caries and pulpal reactions to caries
Pathophysiology of caries and  pulpal reactions to cariesPathophysiology of caries and  pulpal reactions to caries
Pathophysiology of caries and pulpal reactions to caries
 
Internal morphology of permanent teeth
Internal morphology of permanent teeth Internal morphology of permanent teeth
Internal morphology of permanent teeth
 
Physical and chemical injuries of oral cavity
Physical and chemical injuries of oral cavityPhysical and chemical injuries of oral cavity
Physical and chemical injuries of oral cavity
 
Selection of anterior teeth ppt
Selection of anterior teeth pptSelection of anterior teeth ppt
Selection of anterior teeth ppt
 
Record bases and Occlusal rims ppt
Record bases and Occlusal rims pptRecord bases and Occlusal rims ppt
Record bases and Occlusal rims ppt
 

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (20)

SOC 101 Demonstration of Learning Presentation
SOC 101 Demonstration of Learning PresentationSOC 101 Demonstration of Learning Presentation
SOC 101 Demonstration of Learning Presentation
 
TỔNG ÔN TẬP THI VÀO LỚP 10 MÔN TIẾNG ANH NĂM HỌC 2023 - 2024 CÓ ĐÁP ÁN (NGỮ Â...
TỔNG ÔN TẬP THI VÀO LỚP 10 MÔN TIẾNG ANH NĂM HỌC 2023 - 2024 CÓ ĐÁP ÁN (NGỮ Â...TỔNG ÔN TẬP THI VÀO LỚP 10 MÔN TIẾNG ANH NĂM HỌC 2023 - 2024 CÓ ĐÁP ÁN (NGỮ Â...
TỔNG ÔN TẬP THI VÀO LỚP 10 MÔN TIẾNG ANH NĂM HỌC 2023 - 2024 CÓ ĐÁP ÁN (NGỮ Â...
 
AIM of Education-Teachers Training-2024.ppt
AIM of Education-Teachers Training-2024.pptAIM of Education-Teachers Training-2024.ppt
AIM of Education-Teachers Training-2024.ppt
 
Exploring_the_Narrative_Style_of_Amitav_Ghoshs_Gun_Island.pptx
Exploring_the_Narrative_Style_of_Amitav_Ghoshs_Gun_Island.pptxExploring_the_Narrative_Style_of_Amitav_Ghoshs_Gun_Island.pptx
Exploring_the_Narrative_Style_of_Amitav_Ghoshs_Gun_Island.pptx
 
Graduate Outcomes Presentation Slides - English
Graduate Outcomes Presentation Slides - EnglishGraduate Outcomes Presentation Slides - English
Graduate Outcomes Presentation Slides - English
 
How to Add a Tool Tip to a Field in Odoo 17
How to Add a Tool Tip to a Field in Odoo 17How to Add a Tool Tip to a Field in Odoo 17
How to Add a Tool Tip to a Field in Odoo 17
 
Single or Multiple melodic lines structure
Single or Multiple melodic lines structureSingle or Multiple melodic lines structure
Single or Multiple melodic lines structure
 
How to Create and Manage Wizard in Odoo 17
How to Create and Manage Wizard in Odoo 17How to Create and Manage Wizard in Odoo 17
How to Create and Manage Wizard in Odoo 17
 
HMCS Vancouver Pre-Deployment Brief - May 2024 (Web Version).pptx
HMCS Vancouver Pre-Deployment Brief - May 2024 (Web Version).pptxHMCS Vancouver Pre-Deployment Brief - May 2024 (Web Version).pptx
HMCS Vancouver Pre-Deployment Brief - May 2024 (Web Version).pptx
 
Simple, Complex, and Compound Sentences Exercises.pdf
Simple, Complex, and Compound Sentences Exercises.pdfSimple, Complex, and Compound Sentences Exercises.pdf
Simple, Complex, and Compound Sentences Exercises.pdf
 
Basic Civil Engineering first year Notes- Chapter 4 Building.pptx
Basic Civil Engineering first year Notes- Chapter 4 Building.pptxBasic Civil Engineering first year Notes- Chapter 4 Building.pptx
Basic Civil Engineering first year Notes- Chapter 4 Building.pptx
 
Wellbeing inclusion and digital dystopias.pptx
Wellbeing inclusion and digital dystopias.pptxWellbeing inclusion and digital dystopias.pptx
Wellbeing inclusion and digital dystopias.pptx
 
FICTIONAL SALESMAN/SALESMAN SNSW 2024.pdf
FICTIONAL SALESMAN/SALESMAN SNSW 2024.pdfFICTIONAL SALESMAN/SALESMAN SNSW 2024.pdf
FICTIONAL SALESMAN/SALESMAN SNSW 2024.pdf
 
Details on CBSE Compartment Exam.pptx1111
Details on CBSE Compartment Exam.pptx1111Details on CBSE Compartment Exam.pptx1111
Details on CBSE Compartment Exam.pptx1111
 
latest AZ-104 Exam Questions and Answers
latest AZ-104 Exam Questions and Answerslatest AZ-104 Exam Questions and Answers
latest AZ-104 Exam Questions and Answers
 
On National Teacher Day, meet the 2024-25 Kenan Fellows
On National Teacher Day, meet the 2024-25 Kenan FellowsOn National Teacher Day, meet the 2024-25 Kenan Fellows
On National Teacher Day, meet the 2024-25 Kenan Fellows
 
COMMUNICATING NEGATIVE NEWS - APPROACHES .pptx
COMMUNICATING NEGATIVE NEWS - APPROACHES .pptxCOMMUNICATING NEGATIVE NEWS - APPROACHES .pptx
COMMUNICATING NEGATIVE NEWS - APPROACHES .pptx
 
Sensory_Experience_and_Emotional_Resonance_in_Gabriel_Okaras_The_Piano_and_Th...
Sensory_Experience_and_Emotional_Resonance_in_Gabriel_Okaras_The_Piano_and_Th...Sensory_Experience_and_Emotional_Resonance_in_Gabriel_Okaras_The_Piano_and_Th...
Sensory_Experience_and_Emotional_Resonance_in_Gabriel_Okaras_The_Piano_and_Th...
 
Understanding Accommodations and Modifications
Understanding  Accommodations and ModificationsUnderstanding  Accommodations and Modifications
Understanding Accommodations and Modifications
 
This PowerPoint helps students to consider the concept of infinity.
This PowerPoint helps students to consider the concept of infinity.This PowerPoint helps students to consider the concept of infinity.
This PowerPoint helps students to consider the concept of infinity.
 

Electronic Apex Locator

  • 1. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 1 Faculty of Dental Sciences Presented by : Dr.Arbiya Anjum S Electronic Apex Locator “The use of electricity in the dental office has given dignity to the profession. The supplanting of the pedal engine by the electric engine has done much toward elevating this part of the work from pure mechanical labor. The dentist while operating the pedal engine differed but little from the performance of a scissors grinder in the eyes of the public. The electric engine has added tone to the dental office and dignity to the dentist.” - Custer
  • 2. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 2 Faculty of Dental Sciences Contents • Introduction • Significance of working length • Anatomical considerations and terminology • Drawbacks of radiographic method • History • Function • Resistance based EAL • Classification of EMRCLS • Low frequency oscillation ERCLMDs • High frequency devices (capacitance based) • Capacitance and resistance ERCLMDs • Voltage gradient ERCLMDs • Two frequencies impedance difference ERCLMDs • Two frequencies impedance ratio ERCLMDs • Multi frequency ERCLMDs • Adaptive apex locators • Comparison of EALs with different working length determination methods • Comparison of different EALs • Apex locator with other functions • Accuracy of apex locators • Root ZX more accurate • Bingo 1020/Ray-Pex 4 • Review of literature • Factors influencing the functioning of apex locators • Problems associated • Clinical acceptance • Advantages and disadvantages • Conclusion • References
  • 3. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 3 Faculty of Dental Sciences Introduction • Root canal treatment - confined within the root canal system • Canal terminus must be detected accurately • Precise control of working length during process must be maintained • Several techniques have been used for determining the apical canal terminus including electronic methods
  • 4. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 4 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 4 Working length: “The distance from a coronal reference point to the point at which canal preparation and obturation should terminate” Significance 1) To determine the instrument length in the canal 2) Limits the depth to which the canal filling maybe placed 3) Limits the postoperative pain & discomfort , violate the apical zone 4) Determination of the success of treatment
  • 5. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 5 Faculty of Dental Sciences A = Root apex B = Apical constriction C = Root canal D = Cementum E = Dentine F = Apical foramen
  • 6. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 6 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 6Ingle 6th edition Radiographic method drawbacks •Bisecting angle technique - Canal length often varies greatly from actual working length Long-cone paralleling technique - more accurate 2D representation of 3D object - interpreted differently between clinicians Determining file position - decreased as the distance from the radiographic apex increased Digital radiographic techniques do not permit the use of long-cone paralleling technique Radiation exposure
  • 7. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 7 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 7 (a) Superimposed files over each other in buccal and palatal canals (b) The same image taken from another angle to see the files separately (a) Superimposition of the zygomatic arch over the roots of maxillary molars (b) Superimposition of the Torus Mandibularis over the roots of mandibular premolars
  • 8. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 8 Faculty of Dental Sciences Tactile Method • Seidberg et al. (1975) - 60% locate apical constriction • Stabholz et al. 1995 - Pre-flaring , increase tactile sensation by up to 75% • Topography of the AC can vary from tooth to tooth
  • 9. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 9 Faculty of Dental Sciences • The name ‘Electronic Apex Locator’ is not appropriate • ‘Electronic Apical Foramen Locator’ or ‘Electronic Root Canal Length Measurement Device’ (ERCLMD) as a generic name would be more appropriate The fundamental operating principles of electronic root canal length measurement devices IEJ, 39, 595–609, 2006 Why use an Apex Locator? • 90% times, radiological Apex and actual Apex do NOT match! • Schaeffer et al. 2005 - Major foramen deviates in the lingual/buccal plane, difficult to locate its position even with multiplane angles
  • 10. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 10 Faculty of Dental Sciences •Use of electrical circuits to measure WL 1918-Custer •Electrical resistance between PDL and OMM measurimg device •Constant value at 6.5 kΩ 1942-Suzuki •2nd person to report electrical measurement of root canals 1960 - Gordon •1st measured w/l in patients -electrical resistance 1962 - Sunada • High frequency waves and a specially coated file , in conductive fluids 1979-Hasedgawa •Voltage Gradient Method 1983- Ushiyama •Filtering the difference between two direct potentials after a 1 kHz rectilinear wave Mid ’80s •Multi-channel impedance/ ratio based technology late ’80s by Kobayashi History
  • 11. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 11 Faculty of Dental Sciences Basic Physics And Current Electricity • Current • Resistance (R) • Impedance • Capacitor
  • 12. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 12 Faculty of Dental Sciences • Isolate the tooth well • Dry the pulp chamber • Now insert the snuggly fitting • Attach file holder above the rubber stopper • Choose longer files as we need some space for file holder • Attach lip hook on the opposite side of the RCT tooth • Now Put the Apex Locator on • Start pushing the file in the canal • Keep pushing , beep sound becomes continuous • Now start withdrawing/ pulling • Once we reach to 0.0 reading on the screen again, stop withdrawing • Now adjust the silicone rubber stopper to the referral cusp or plane important • Remove file holder • Take the file out of the canal carefully without moving the rubber stopper • Measure the length of the file How to use?
  • 13. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 13 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 13 Type Of Current
  • 14. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 14 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 14 Resistance Type Apex Locators Resistance value - 6.5 kilo ohms
  • 15. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 15 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 15 • Increasing electrical impedance across the walls of the root canal, greater apically than coronally • At CDJ, level of impedance drops • Detects sudden change and indicates it on the analogue meter • Insulated probes are utilized Impedance Type Apex Locators
  • 16. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 16 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 16 • Measures impedance of tooth at two different frequencies • Coronal portion - constant • As the file advances , the difference in the impedance value begins to differ greatly with maximum differences at apical area Frequency Type Apex Locators
  • 17. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 17 Faculty of Dental Sciences • Root canal meter • Dentometer • Endodontic meter, Endodontic meter S II 1st generation • Sonoexplorer • Endocater • Apex finder 2nd generation • Endex/ Apit • Root ZX • Apex finder AFA 3rd generation • Bingo 1020/ Ray Pex 4 • Elements diagnostic unit 4th generation • Additional mathematical processing • Difficulty in dry canals 5th generation • Adaptive type6th generation Gordon MPJ, Chandler NP. Electronic apex locators. International Endodontic Journal, 37, 425–437, 2004.
  • 18. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 18 Faculty of Dental Sciences Nekoofar MH, Ghandi MM, Hayes SJ, Dummer PMH. The fundamental operating principles of electronic root canal length measurement devices. International Endodontic Journal,2006;39:595–609. Resistance based ERCLMDs Low frequency oscillation ERCLMDs High frequency devices Capacitance and resistance ERCLMDs Voltage gradient ERCLMDs Two frequencies, impedance difference ERCLMDs Two frequency impedance ratio ERCLMDs Multifrequency devices
  • 19. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 19 Faculty of Dental Sciences Resistance based ERCLMDs • The circuit between the endodontic file and the lip clip could be modelled by a Simple resistive circuit • Small DC current – applied • Suchde &Talim 1977, Nekoofar et al. 2002, Pommer et al. 2002, Tinaz et al. 2002 - Not always accurate when strong electrolytes, excessive hemorrhage, pus or pulp tissue was present • Foster & Schwan 1989 - As soon as the file tip touches the electro conductive solution (electrolyte), the DC voltage polarizes the tissues and varies its resistivity Foster KR, Schwan HP. Dielectric properties of tissues and biological materials: a critical review. Crit Rev Biomed Eng. 1989;17(1):25-104.
  • 20. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 20 Faculty of Dental Sciences Low frequency oscillation ERCLMDs • The structure of the endodontic instrument, canal and tissues have capacitive characteristics as well as resistive characteristics • Capacitance characteristics- variable with shape of canal • Inoue (1972-73) - low frequency oscillation eg: SonoExplorer • Assumption : Impedance value of gingival sulcus and OMM similar to PDL Inoue N Dental "stethoscope" measures root canal. Dent Surv. 1972 Jan;48(1):38-9. .
  • 21. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 21 Faculty of Dental Sciences • SonoExplorer measures these two impedances and identifies the canal terminus when the readings approach each other Individual calibration required • Technique involved inserting a file with a silicon plastic-sheath into the gingival crevice of the tooth to be measured and the sound produced was named the ‘gingival crevice sound’ • Then, the conventional endodontic file was inserted into the root canal and when the sound produced by this file became ‘identical’ with the ‘gingival crevice sound’
  • 22. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 22 Faculty of Dental Sciences High frequency devices (capacitance based) • Endocater in 1979 by Hasegawa • High frequency reference circuit- 400 kHz • Insulated files used- capacitance dependent only on surface area at tip • Insulating coating- – Narrow canals – Curvatures – Abrasion of coating – Autoclaving modifies properties Keller et al. 1991;Himel & Schott 1993
  • 23. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 23 Faculty of Dental Sciences Capacitance and resistance ERCLMDs • Elements diagnostic unit ,2003 • Measured capacitance and resistance separately • The device exploits a composite signal with two frequencies to measure the resistance and capacitance of the system and then compares the measured values with its lookup table to diagnose the position of the file • Vera and Gutierrez, 2004 – Withdraw to 0.5mm mark – Dry access cavity
  • 24. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 24 Faculty of Dental Sciences Voltage Gradient ERCLMDS • Ushiyama (1983) - Measure the variation in impedance when a file was inserted into the root canal • Using bipolar electrodes and applying a 400-Hz AC, this device monitored variations in the impedance value • Sharp variation in the frequency determines apical constriction • Accurate in presence of strong electrolytes • Bipolar electrodes- bulky Ushiyama J. New principle and method for measuring the root canal length. J Endod. 1983 Mar;9(3):97-104.
  • 25. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 25 Faculty of Dental Sciences Two frequencies impedance difference ERCLMDs • Yamaoka, 1984 - Impedance value at 2 different frequencies • Measures the Difference in frequencies proportional to difference in impedances • Should be calibrated at coronal portion to determine dielectric constant of contents • As file approaches the canal terminus, the value of the capacitance sharply increases probably because of change in the morphology of the apical portion of the root • Accurate irrespective of canal contents • Not accurate in dry conditions – Open electric circuit
  • 26. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 26 Faculty of Dental Sciences Two frequencies impedance ratio ERCLMDs • 2 frequency single waves with different frequencies • Kobayashi and Suda, 1994- ratio had definite value depending on frequency used, indicates location of file in canal • At positions close to the canal terminus, the capacitive characteristic of the impedance starts to appear • The influence of the capacitance on the overall impedance is proportional to the frequency of the measurement Kobayashi C, Suda H. New electronic canal measuring device based on the ratio method. J Endod. 1994 Mar;20(3):111-4.
  • 27. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 27 Faculty of Dental Sciences • At high frequencies (fH) the overall impedance value will be much lower than at low frequency (fL) • That means, at the apical constriction the ratio tends towards a small value (Kobayashi & Suda 1994), however, this phenomenon is related to the morphology of the constriction • Lack of a constriction because of open apices (Hu¨lsmann & Pieper 1989, Goldberg et al. 2002) or an impenetrable canal (Rivera & Seraji 1993, Ibarrola et al. 1999) have been reported as an impediment to determine the position of the canal terminus (Oishi et al. 2002)
  • 28. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 28 Faculty of Dental Sciences Multi frequency ERCLMDs • Endo Analyzer 8005, AFA Apex Finder • 5 different frequencies • Phase and amplitude of impedance • The principle behind this device, is similar to the impedance ratio-based ERCLMDs • It detects the canal terminus by determining a sudden change in the dominant characteristic (capacitive or resistive) of the impedance
  • 29. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 29 Faculty of Dental Sciences • Welk et al. (2003) compared the accuracy of an impedance ratio-based ERCLMD (Root ZX) and the Endo Analyzer • Found that the mean distance between the electronically located canal terminus and minor diameter was 1.03 mm for the Endo Analyzer and 0.19 mm for the Root ZX • The ability of the devices to locate the apical constriction was 34.4 and 90.7% of cases respectively
  • 30. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 30 Faculty of Dental Sciences Adaptive apex locators • Continuously defines humidity of the canal and immediately adapts to dry or wet canal • It is possible to be used in dry and in additional wetted canals as well, canals with blood or exudates, canals with still not extirpated pulp Electronic Apex Locators - Journal of Dental Sciences & Oral Rehabilitation 2013;Jan-March
  • 31. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 31 Faculty of Dental Sciences Comparison of EALs with different working length determination methods Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part I: Different generations, comparison with other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
  • 32. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 32 Faculty of Dental Sciences Effect of pulp conditions on EAL’s accuracy • Pommer et al - EALs were more accurate in vital teeth than in necrotic ones • Aksiue et al - Pulp condition did not affect the accuracy of EALs • Renner et al - Accuracy of the Novapex apex locator in posterior teeth. Thirty-five vital teeth (68 canals) and 42 necrotic teeth (76 canals) were studied • It was demonstrated that pulp condition did not affect the accuracy of EALs Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part II: Different generations, comparison with other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
  • 33. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 33 Faculty of Dental Sciences Effect of peri-apical conditions on EALs’ accuracy • Piasecki et al - Ability of the Root ZX II to detect the apical foramen in teeth with apical periodontitis • Presence of defects in the pre-apical area did not affect the accuracy of the Root ZX II Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part II: Different generations, comparison with other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
  • 34. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 34 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 34 • Tri Auto ZX : The Root ZX has been combined with a handpiece to measure canal length when a rotary file is used • The handpiece uses nickel-titanium rotary instruments that rotate at 240 to 280 rpm • Kobayashi et al. “to get the best results, it may be necessary to use some hand instrumentation” in combination with the Tri Auto ZX, depending on the difficulty and morphology of the root canal being treated • Tri Auto ZX - accuracy similar to the Root ZX of 95% , • Alves et al. - in vitro the capacity of the Tri Auto ZX to locate the AF following removal of root filling material during root canal treatment it was accurate to 􀊶0.5 mm in more than 80% of teeth when used following removal of root filling • Dentaport ZX comprised of two modules: the Root ZX and the Tri Auto ZX. The handpiece uses nickel-titanium rotary instruments that rotate at 50 to 800 rpm Combination of Apex Locator with Endodontic Handpiece
  • 35. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 35 Faculty of Dental Sciences Combination of an apex locator and an electrical pulp tester also have been marketed- Elements Diagnostic Unit Other apex-locating handpieces: 1. Kobayashi et al. - New ultrasonic system SOFY ZX uses the Root ZX to electronically monitor the location of the file tip during all instrumentation procedures, minimizes the danger of over instrumentation 2. The Endy 7000 Efficacy of both the electronic apex locator (EAL) and auto apical reverse (AAR) functions of the endodontic motor MM Control compared with Root ZX II • No difference • EAL function of MM Control presented a greater percentage of measurements >1.01 mm longer than AL • AAR function provided an acceptable apical limit in 83.3% of the cases for Root ZX and 77.8% of the cases for MM Control
  • 36. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 36 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 36
  • 37. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 37 Faculty of Dental Sciences Accuracy of apex locators Determination of the Accuracy of 5 Electronic Apex Locators in the Function of Different Employment Protocols Tiago Nepomuceno Oliveira Regardless of the mechanism of the device, the best results were found when electronic RCL measurement was performed at the AF
  • 38. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 38 Faculty of Dental Sciences Root ZX more accurate • File away from apex- capacitance very high, ratio dependent on resistance, close to 1 • File near terminus- capacitance character increases, impedance proportional to frequency, ratio- smaller value • Dependent on presence of constriction • Contents no influence
  • 39. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 39 Faculty of Dental Sciences Accuracy of Root ZX series electronic apex locators (EALs) for locating the apical constriction -90.48% to 97.62%. J Dent Sci 2009;4(2):75−80 • Root ZX reliably measured the canal lengths to within 0.31 mm,(2% lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine, 5.25% NaOCl, RC Prep, (EDTA), 3% hydrogen peroxide, and Peridex • Jenkins JA, Walker WA 3rd, Schindler WG, Flores CM. An in vitro evaluation of the accuracy of the Root ZX in the presence of various irrigants. J Endod 2001;27(3):209–11.
  • 40. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 40 Faculty of Dental Sciences Gordon MPJ, Chandler NP. Electronic apex locators. International Endodontic Journal, 37, 425–437, 2004.
  • 41. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 41 Faculty of Dental Sciences Bingo 1020/Ray-Pex 4 • Fourth generation device ,two separate frequencies 400 Hz and 8 kHz similar to current third generation units • Manufacturers -combination of using only one frequency at a time and basing measurements on the root mean square values of the signals increases the measurement accuracy and the reliability of the device (Apex Locator Bingo – ‘1020’ 1999) • Kaufman et al. 2002 - As reliable as the Root ZX and also user friendly • Tinaz et al. (2002) - As accurate as the Root ZX in an in vitro study and easier for a beginner to use in preflared canals
  • 42. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 42 Faculty of Dental Sciences • Root ZX, Elements Diagnostic Unit and Apex Locator, Mini Apex Locator, and Apex DSP - The Root ZX and the Mini Apex Locator devices increased significantly the precision to determine the real working length after the preflaring procedure • ProPex and Apex Pointer can be used safely in working length determination of teeth with large periapical lesions, which have persistent intracanal exudate Calıskan MK, Kaval ME, Tekin U. Clinical accuracy of two electronic apex locators in teeth with large periapical lesions. International Endodontic Journal Influence of Preflaring on the Accuracy of Length Determination With Four Electronic Apex Locators E´ ricson Janolio de Camargo JOE 2009
  • 43. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 43 Faculty of Dental Sciences Calcium hydroxide dressing residues after different removal techniques affect the accuracy of Root-ZX apex locator • Ability of several techniques to remove calcium hydroxide (CH) from the root canal and determined the influence of CH residues on the accuracy of the electronic apex locator • Proved that calcium hydroxide residues did influence the accuracy adversely Restor Dent Endod. 2015 Feb; 40(1): 44–49
  • 44. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 44 Faculty of Dental Sciences Influence of GP solvents used in endo retreatment on the effectiveness of the Root ZX 2 apex locator • 30 human, single-rooted permanent teeth were divided into three groups according to the solvent used: group OPO (orange peel oil, n = 10), group XYL (xylol, n = 10) and group CHL (chloroform, n = 10) • Tooth length was established visually under 5× magnification with the aid of an optic microscope and then compared with the corresponding electronic measurement with a safety margin of ±0.5 mm ENDO (Lond Engl) 2010;4(4)263–266
  • 45. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 45 Faculty of Dental Sciences Size of the apical foramen • The size of the apical foramen also has an influence on electronic length determination • Huang (1987) - when the size of the major foramen was less than 0.2 mm measurements were not affected, even in the presence of conductive irrigants, but as it increased above 0.2 mm measured distances from the foramen increased • The Root ZX apex locator is accurate under a diameter apical size of 0.6 mm. In the case of diameters of 0.7 to 0.8 mm, we must adjust the files to the foramen to maintain accuracy, whereas above size 0.9 mm the device is not accurate Critical Diameter of Apical Foramen and of File Size Using the Root ZX Apex Locator: An In Vitro Study Manuela Herrera JOE 2011
  • 46. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 46 Faculty of Dental Sciences Canal patency • Canal patency appears to be more important, as dentine debris may disrupt the electrical resistance between the inside of the canal and the periodontal ligament • Rivera & Seraji 1993 - Constant recapitulation and irrigation ensures accurate electronic length readings during instrumentation
  • 47. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 47 Faculty of Dental Sciences In root fractures • Any connection between the root canal and the periodontal membrane will be recognised by the EAL • Excellent diagnostic tool in these circumstances • The Root ZX was more accurate in the detection of horizontal root fractures than the other EALs tested • In contrast, the three EALs were unreliable in detecting the position of vertical root fractures • Root ZX showed significantly better scores than the other EALs for the detection vertical root fractures. Accuracy of three different electronic apex locators in detecting simulated horizontal and vertical root fractures Aust Endod J 2006; 32: 64–69
  • 48. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 48 Faculty of Dental Sciences Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part I: Different generations, comparison with other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
  • 49. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 49 Faculty of Dental Sciences Resorption • Possible destruction of apical constriction and loss of surrounding PDL • Goldberg et al- accuracy of Root ZX 62.7% with a clinical tolerance of ± 0.5mm • Dependent on operator’s experience • Shabahang et al- Root ZX locate root end consistently even with resorption lacunae
  • 50. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 50 Faculty of Dental Sciences • Early detection and immediate treatment • Kaufman et al- clinically acceptable to within 0.06 to 0.60 mm short of external outline of root apex • Root ZX compared to the Sono Explorer Mark II Junior and Apit III in detecting (small and large) root Perforations • The mean distance of the tip of the file from the external outline of the root surface was short for all instruments and clinically acceptable (0.06–0.25 mm)
  • 51. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 51 Faculty of Dental Sciences Primary teeth • Katz et al- Root ZX detect canal length similar to actual length and radiographic film • Quick, comfortable and accurate • Tendency to slightly under estimate root length • For the Root ZX, there was no significant difference between those teeth with root resorption and those without • However, for the Tri Auto ZX, there was a significant difference in the electronic measurements between those teeth with root resorption and those without Tosun G, Erdemir A, Eldeniz AU, Sermet U, Sener Y. Accuracy of two electronic apex locators in primary teeth with and without apical resorption: a laboratory study. International Endodontic Journal
  • 52. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 52 Faculty of Dental Sciences Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part II: Different generations, comparison with other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
  • 53. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 53 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 53 Conclusion: Mobile phones do not interfere with the EWL determination Methods: Effect of cellular phones on electronic working length (EWL) was determined in a closed room with poor signal strength and polyclinic set up with good signal strength (1) without cellular phone in room (2) with cellular phone in physical contact with EAL (3) with mobile phone in physical contact with EAL and in calling mode for 25 secs (4) phone placed at a distance of 40 cm from the EAL (5) phone placed at a distance of 40 cm and in calling mode for 25 secs
  • 54. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 54 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 54 Conclusion: No difference in postoperative pain
  • 55. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 55 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 55 Conclusion: • Root ZX mini and Mini Apex Locator have similar accuracy to the Root ZX • Function of the three apex locators was not affected by the type of endodontic solution used 5.25% Sodium Hypochlorite, 2.625% Sodium Hypochlorite, 1.0% Sodium Hypochlorite, 0.9% NaCl, 2% lidocaine with 1:80,000 Epinephrine, and 2% Chlorhexidine Root ZX mini and the Mini Apex Locator, in the presence of different endodontic solutions and compare their performance to the Root ZX electronic apex locator
  • 56. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 56 Faculty of Dental Sciences Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part II: Different generations, comparison with other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei
  • 57. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 57 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 57 • CBCT images obtained at different FOVs with voxel sizes less than 0.3 mm3 performed similarly and better than IOPA • Apex locator measurements were better than CBCT and periapical images, and they correlated highly with actual length measurements • Absence of streak and beam hardening artifacts, motion artifacts, and anatomic noise from the opposing jaw structures
  • 58. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 58 Faculty of Dental Sciences Immature apices • EAL readings short of WL > size 50 • Blood in canal affects reading esp in canal sizes 60 or more when measured with smaller files • Snug fitting file recommended Kim Y-JA, Chandler NP. Determination of working length for teeth with wide or immature apices: a review. International Endodontic Journal, 46, 483– 491, 2013) • Immature or ‘blunderbuss’ apices tend to give short measurements electronically (Berman & Fleischman 1984, Wu et al.1992) due to the instruments not touching the apical dentine walls (Hu¨lsmann & Pieper 1989)
  • 59. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 59 Faculty of Dental Sciences Pacemakers • Woolley et al. 1974 - Electromagnetic interference from dental equipment including electronic apex locators has the potential to interfere with cardiac pacemakers • Miller et al - tested 14 electrical dental devices in vitro for their ability to interfere with 2 different pacemakers , electrosurgical and ultrasonic instruments interfered with pacemaker activity, whereas the other dental devices had no effect • The two EALs(Root ZX Endo Analyzer) and one EPT(Endo Analyzer)used in this study did not interfere with the functioning of any of the cardiac devices tested Safety of Electronic Apex Locators and Pulp Testers in Patients With Implanted Cardiac Pacemakers or Cardioverter/Defibrillators Brian L. Wilson JOE Garofalo et al. - connected EALs directly to a pacemaker in an in vitro study and found that four of five EALs showed no effect on cardiac pacemaker function
  • 60. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 60 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 60 4 EALs tested did not interfere with the correct functioning of ICDs in vitro More than 66.000 ICDs are implanted annually in the United States
  • 61. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 61 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 61 Influence of Preflaring on the Accuracy of Length Determination With Four Electronic Apex Locators De Camargo (2009) - root ZX and the mini Apex locator devices increased significantly the precision To determine the real working length after the preflaring Procedure
  • 62. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 62 Faculty of Dental Sciences Problems associated • Unstable electronic signal with rapid wandering signs – Metallic restorations or cervical leak – Removing metallic restoration – Blowing air into wet chamber • Sharp drop of signal at apical foramen – Very dry canals-no electric contact – Drops abruptly when it reaches apical foramen – Apex- circuit breaks out Kim E, Lee S. Electronic apex locator. Dent Clin N Am 48 (2004) 35–54 • Apex sign from beginning – Severely bleeding or exudating canals – Too much electrolyte in canal – Irrigate gently with NaOCl, saline until drainage stops • Premature reading, open apex – Sharp drop in impedance due to thin dentinal walls
  • 63. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 63 Faculty of Dental Sciences Clinical acceptance • Cost of the instruments and exposure to the technology are also factors Gordon MPJ, Chandler NP. Electronic apex locators. International Endodontic Journal, 37, 425–437, 2004.
  • 64. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 64 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 64
  • 65. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 65 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 65 Conclusion No individual technique is truly satisfactory in determining endodontic working length The CDJ is a practical and anatomic termination point for the preparation and obturation of the root canal and this cannot be determined radiographically Modern electronic apex locators can determine this position with accuracies of greater than 90% but still have some limitations Knowledge of apical anatomy, prudent use of radiographs and the correct use of an electronic apex locator will assist practitioners to achieve predictable results or as Lester Ellsworth Custer would say... strict attention to business is fundamental to success!
  • 66. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 66 Faculty of Dental Sciences • Ingle’s endodontics 6th edition • The fundamental operating principles of electronic root canal length measurement devices IEJ, 39, 595–609, 2006 • The New Era of Foramenal Location Kenneth S. Serota, Jorge Vera, Frederick Barnett, Yosef Nahmias, oral health August 2004 • Gordon MPJ, Chandler NP. Electronic apex locators. International Endodontic Journal, 37, 425–437, 2004 • Nekoofar MH, Ghandi MM, Hayes SJ, Dummer PMH. The fundamental operating principles of electronic root canal length measurement devices. International Endodontic Journal,2006;39:595–609 • Foster KR, Schwan HP. Dielectric properties of tissues and biological materials: a critical review. Crit Rev Biomed Eng. 1989;17(1):25-104 • Inoue N Dental "stethoscope" measures root canal. Dent Surv. 1972 Jan;48(1):38-9 • Ushiyama J. New principle and method for measuring the root canal length. J Endod. 1983 Mar;9(3):97-104. • Kobayashi C, Suda H. New electronic canal measuring device based on the ratio method. J Endod. 1994 Mar;20(3):111-4 • Electronic Apex Locators - Journal of Dental Sciences & Oral Rehabilitation 2013;Jan-March • Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part I: Different generations, comparison with other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei References
  • 67. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 67 Faculty of Dental Sciences • Calıskan MK, Kaval ME, Tekin U. Clinical accuracy of two electronic apex locators in teeth with large periapical lesions. International Endodontic Journal • Electronic apex locator: A comprehensive literature review — Part II: Different generations, comparison with other techniques and different usages Hamid Mosleh, Saber Khazaei, Hamid Razavian, Armita Vali, Farzad Ziaei • Erdemir A, Eldeniz AU, Ari H, Belli S, Esener T. The influence of irrigating solutions on the accuracy of the electronic apex locator facility in the Tri Auto ZX handpiece. International Endodontic Journal • Calcium hydroxide dressing residues after different removal techniques affect the accuracy of Root-ZX apex locator Restor Dent Endod. 2015 Feb; 40(1): 44–49 • Influence of GP solvents used in endo retreatment on the effectiveness of the root zx 2 apex locator ENDO (Lond Engl) 2010;4(4)263–266 • Critical Diameter of Apical Foramen and of File Size Using the Root ZX Apex Locator: An In Vitro Study Manuela Herrera JOE 2011 • Accuracy of three different electronic apex locators in detecting simulated horizontal and vertical root fractures Aust Endod J 2006; 32: 64–69 • Reliability of different electronic apex locators to detect root perforations in vitro A. Y. KAUFMAN, Z . F U S S, S . KEILA & S. WAXENBERG • Kim E, Lee S. Electronic apex locator. Dent Clin N Am 48 (2004) 35–54
  • 68. © Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 68 Faculty of Dental Sciences©M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences 68