Evaluation of a digital radiography to estimate working length

Abstract

The working lengths obtained with different methods in single-rooted teeth were compared. An endodontic rule in millimeters and calipers was used as a direct method of measurement (on endodontic files). As indirect methods, measurements were taken from conventional x-rays with calipers and with a digital radiological measurement system. No statistically significant differences were obtained between the direct and indirect methods. Three vertical angulations were taken for the indirect methods (0 degree, 15 degrees, and 30 degrees). No significant differences were found between results for the two indirect methods versus the standard method except for the 30 degrees angulation, which resulted in an impression of a shortened image of about 1.5 mm when using the indirect methods (significance level: alpha = 0.05).