ACCURACY OF TWO ELECTRONIC APEX LOCATORS IN DETERMINING SIMULATED ROOT PERFORATION (IN VIRTO STUDY)

Abstract

Root perforation is a non-anatomic mechanical or pathological communication between the root canal system and periodontal tissues. Although caries or resorptive processes may cause perforations, they are usually iatrogenically induced and they have a negative effect on the long-term prognosis of the tooth after root canal treatment(1). Root canal treatment perforations may occur at access opening, canal orifice search, excessive dentin removal in danger zone, misdirected files during canal negotiation, unsuccessful attempts to bypass separated instruments and misaligned instruments during post-space preparation. So clinical diagnosis of location of perforation is mandatory in order to minimize the probability of extruding of various irritating materials used during root canal treatment procedure and prevent instrumentation beyond perforation site.