Determination of Efficacy of Different Apex Locators

Background: A correct working length is a critical factor for the endodontic success. The present studyassessed efficacy of Root ZX, Apex ID apex locator and Sybron Endo’s Mini Apex locator.Materials and Method: The present study was conducted on45 mandibular molar teeth. In all teeth workinglength was assessed with 10 K file. Samples were divided into three groups. In Group I Root ZX, in groupII Apex ID apex locator and in group III Sybron Endo’s Mini Apex Locator was used. Based on the positionof the file tip to the radiographic apex on the IOPA radiograph, the samples were categorized using thefollowing scoring criteria. Acceptable = 0–1 short, short = >1 mm short and Long/Beyond = Beyond theapex.Results: Reading with root ZX was acceptable in 13, short in 1 and beyond in 1 case, ID apex locator wasacceptable in 12, short in 3 and beyond in 0, Endo’s Mini Apex Locator was acceptable in 11, short in 2 andbeyond in 2 cases. The difference was significant (P< 0.05).Conclusion: Authors found that Root ZX was more effective than ID apex locator and Sybron Endo’s MiniApex Locator in accessing working length.