Comparison of accuracy of digital and conventional radiography in determining endodontic working length

Abstract

Working length determination is a critical step in root canal therapy. Different methods have been introduced for this purpose. Recently, the digital radiography has been introduced for this purpose because of its advantages over conventional one. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of digital and conventional radiography in endodontic working length determination. Materials & Methods: Sixty single-rooted human teeth were selected for this study. The teeth were randomly divided into two groups. The working length determination in group 1 and 2 was carried out using digital and conventional radiography, respectively. The procedure was performed by a single operator at 2 times. Results: The difference in WL between 2 intervals was not statistically significant neither in digital nor in conventional radiography method (P>0.05). The analysis of X2 test revealed that the difference between digital and conventional radiography in WL determination was not significant at any intervals (P>0.05). Conclusions: Based on the findings of this study, the accuracy of digital and conventional radiography is similar in working length determination.