The effect ofWi-Fi signals on the measurement accuracy of electronic apex locator during root canal therapy

Abstract

Background: The using of devices that emitted electromagnetic radiation has been
limited in many healthcare centers to prevent interference with medical devices.
The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of Wi-Fi Router
(Tenda FH456) on working length determination using electronic apex locator
(NSK-iPex II) in the presence of network connection with tablet (GT-N800) or
not.
Materials and methods: Twenty-five intact teeth with a single root were sectioned at
the cementoenamel junction. Visually, roots were examined under
stereomicroscope (X20) and the working length was determined using a size 15
K-file. The effect of Tenda Wi-Fi router on accuracy of electronic working length
measurement of electronic apex locator (iPex II) was determined in this study in
closed room under 5 conditions (without router and tablet, with router in different
distances 1 meter and 3 meters from electronic apex locator, with router and
connected with tablet in different distances 1 meter and 3 meters from electronic
apex locator). The electronic working length was measured 3 times per canal
under each condition. The data were compared using analysis of variance.
Results: The mean of working length measured under microscope was (13.30), and
the mean of working length by electronic apex locator was (13.14) while the mean
values of working length in different conditions was fixed (13.12). Analysis of
variance test (ANOVA) showed non-significant difference among working length
measurements in different conditions (P-value ≥ 0.05).
Conclusion: Within the limitations of the present study, stability and reliability of
iPex II apex locator in measurement of electronic working length where not
influenced when placed in (1M, 3M) from Wi-Fi router and active Tablet
(connected to network by Wi-Fi and streaming online videos). During root canal
therapy, active Tablet can be used in the dental operatory without the fear of
causing electromagnetic interference in electronic working length determination.