A Comparative Evaluation of Effects of Conventional and Herbal Irrigants on Working Length Determination by Third Generation Apex Locator–An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Introduction The establishment of accurate working length is one of the most critical steps in endodontic therapy from the biomechanical and obturation points of view. Traditionally, the use of radiography and tactile sense methods were used for working length estimation, but recently, the use of electronic apex locator (EAL) has come into existence. The aim was to evaluate the effect of conventional and herbal irrigants on working length determination by Root ZX.Materials and Methods A total of 110 extracted single rooted teeth were taken. Standard access cavities were prepared and samples were randomly divided into 11 groups (n = 10) according to the type of irrigating solutions used. The actual root canal length was measured, and the readings in dry conditions and wet conditions were recorded. The point where Root ZX showed beep was recorded and difference was recorded as well. The recorded data was calculated and statistically analyzed using unpaired t-test.Result In dry conditions, only saline, H2O2, Aloe vera, and green tea gave exact working length using apex locator values. Whereas in wet conditions, only Aloe vera and green tea gave exact working length.Conclusion Although the irrigants and dry conditions influenced the results, Root ZX can be considered to be accurate, and the difference was within the clinically acceptable range and not statistically significant.