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Apex locator
Also called: electronic apex locator, EAL
An electronic device that measures how long a root canal is.
During a root canal, the dentist needs to know how far down the canal goes. An apex locator completes a tiny electrical circuit between a file in the canal and a clip on the patient's lip, and shows on a screen when the file reaches the end of the root. It cuts down on extra x-rays.
How to spot it
- A small box with a screen, a lip clip and a file holder on thin wires.
What it is used for
- The assistant connects the lip clip and file holder and hands them to the dentist.
Safety and care
- Lip clips and file holders touch the mouth; clean and sterilize or barrier them per the manufacturer.