[An in vitro study of Root ZX root apex locator to diagnose horizontal root fracture].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the accuracy of Root ZX root apex locator in detecting stimulated horizontal root fractures. METHODS: A total of 20 single-canal maxillary anterior teeth were collected. All roots were simulated horizontal root fracture. Root ZX root apex locator measured the canal length in 3 stages: Broken ends of horizontal fractures without separation; broken ends of horizontal fractures with separation, but no impression material; broken ends of horizontal fractures with separation and impression material. The lengths measured by Root ZX root apex locator were compared with actual canal length. RESULTS: To horizontal root fracture without separation or without impression material, Root ZX root apex locator couldn't detect the horizontal root fracture. To horizontal root fracture with separation and impression material, Root ZX root apex locator detected the horizontal root fracture within +/- 0.5 mm in 100%. CONCLUSION: Root ZX root apex locator lacks of diagnostic value for horizontal root fractures without soft tissue ingrowth, but provides with preferable veracity for horizontal root fractures with soft tissue ingrowth.