An evaluation of D, E and F-speed intraoral radiographic film for endodontic working length determination

Abstract

Objective: to test three types of intrao- ral radiographic films: D, E and F-speed (Agfa M2 Comfort, E-Speed and Insight) and their influence on the file visuali- zation when determining the working length. Study design: access cavities and inser- tion of different caliber files simulating endodontic treatment were carried out on two human inferior molars. Radi- ographic references were standardized using a device that allowed similar set of instructions and radiographic film ex- posure and developing. Ten examiners measured radiographic length of the files inside the root canals. The data were examined using Fisher’s Exact test to determine the influence of the read- ing of the film on the working length. Results: E-Speed film produced a higher percentage of correct measurements even though there were no statistically significant differences between the three types of film. Conclusion: E-Speed films, which give good visualization with minimal expo- sure, should be the film of choice in practical clinical dentistry.