Predetermination of root canal lengths in molar teeth: A comparison between radiovisiography and two-dimensional and three-dimensional measurements using cone-beam computed tomography

INTRODUCTION: Obtaining a correct working length is critical to the success of endodontic therapy. The aim of this clinical study was to compare the effect of working length determination using radiovisiography (RVG) and two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) measurements using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty mandibular teeth were taken and three groups of 10 each were made. Teeth with previous endodontic treatments, metal restorations, resorptions, incomplete apex formations, and multiple visible foramina were excluded. The root canal length was determined using RVG, CBCT measurement method 2D, and CBCT measurement method 3D. The difference between CBCT measurements, RVG, and the actual canal length were compared to evaluate the accuracy of each method. RESULTS: No significant statistically difference was seen with 3D measurements and actual measurements. Measurements with RVG were better than CBCT 2D. CONCLUSION: Under experimental conditions, CBCT 3D measurements are accurate than RVG and CBCT 2D in the determination of root canal length.