What is an Apex locator?
An apex locator is a device use to determine the length of a root canal. It uses electrical currents that hook up to the lip to tell the shape of a tooth, and helps endodontic procedures go smoothly. They are able to also monitor the blood flow, saliva, and level of agitation that are occurring in the mouth. their success rate it at about 80-95% accurate and help a lot with root canals. To be able to determine correct working length, you have to appreciate what that term truly means. As early as 1930, Grove determined that root canals should be “junction of the dentin and the cementum and that the pulp should be severed at the point of its union with the periodontal membrane.” They have been found to be a reliable for determining root canal working lengths.
Types of Apex Locators
I-Root, Digital Apex Locator
While being an incredibly interesting piece of technology, it sure is hard to learn about it. Its branding makes it a little rough to find, and its own descriptions seem trapped in some translation lexicon that make it hard to understand with out understanding the dental world on its own thoroughly.
Root ZX II Endodontic Apex Locator
The Root ZX II Endodontic Apex Locator has been credited to be one of the most accurate of Apex locators, being evaluated with a 96.2% accuracy. It has a large color display and is light and compact. This is the smallest apex locator on the market, and does not use analog readings for measurement. Its about as big as two thumbs put togetherApex NRG-XFR