Comparative Evaluation of Root Length Values Determined by Two Different Types Of Electronic Apex Locators And Paralleling Radiographic Method In Primary Mandibular Second Molars Of Children Of 5 To 7 Years Age Group

Material & Methods: A study was carried out on 150 root canals from 50 children in primary second molars indicated for pulpectomy in children of age 5-7 years attending Department of Pedodontics, Government Dental College & Hospital, Ahmedabad. The standard procedure for pulpectomy was carried out and the root canal length was clinically measured with the help of electronic apex locator (Propex II & DentaPort ZX ) and paralleling radiographic method. The values were subjected to one-way ANOVA test. Results: In the current study, mean canal length by Propex II apex locator was 13.158, DentaPort ZX was 13.046 and paralleling radiography was 13.021 for MB (Mesio-buccal) canal respectively, for ML (Mesio-lingual) canal the values were 13.054, 13.08 and 13.066 respectively. For D (Distal) canal mean values were 13.546, 13.47 and 13.476 respectively by ProPex II, DentaPort ZX and paralleling radiographic method. The values were subjected to one-way ANOVA test and there is no significant difference in the mean root length measurements from the three techniques (P > 0.05 ) for all the three root canals. Conclusion: Hence to conclude, electronic apex locator is comparable to paralleling radiography in working length determination without radiation exposure in primary teeth