Comparison of Two Radiographic Methods for Determining Endodontic Working Length

Introduction: Accurate working length (WL) determination is crucial for successful endodontic therapy to ensure thorough canal cleaning while preventing procedural errors. Although several WL assessment techniques exist, conventional and digital radiographic methods remain widely used, yet their comparative performance requires further evaluation. Methods: A comparative study was conducted on single-rooted teeth indicated for root canal therapy. Preoperative digital radiographs were taken using the RVG 6000 system to determine DRWL. After access cavity preparation, CRWL was established using Ingle’s method. Measurements were categorised as exact coincidence (0 mm), acceptable coincidence (±0.5 mm), or non-acceptable (>0.5 mm). Data were analysed using IBM SPSS 26.0; mean differences were assessed with a paired t-test, and correlations with Pearson’s coefficient. Results: Forty-nine patients (29 males, 20 females) with 63 single-rooted teeth participated (mean age 34.59 ± 13.41 years). Central incisors (84.1%) and maxillary teeth (90.5%) were most frequently treated. Exact coincidence occurred in 12.7% of cases, while 61.9% showed acceptable coincidence. DRWL exceeded CRWL in 61.9% of cases. Mean CRWL was 21.49 ± 2.65 mm, and mean DRWL was 21.86 ± 2.47 mm, with a significant difference (p < 0.0001). DRWL was longer by an average of 0.37 mm. A strong positive correlation existed between both methods (r = 0.954, p < 0.0001). No significant difference was observed between central and lateral incisors. Conclusion: Both methods provide clinically acceptable WL estimates. DRWL tends to be slightly longer but remains within acceptable tolerance, making it a reliable and advantageous alternative in modern endodontic practice.