Basic
Technical
WL
Also written as: WL — Working Length
Abbreviation for Working Length; the measured distance from a coronal reference to the intended apical termination point of canal instrumentation.
Full Definition
WL is the standard abbreviation for 'working length' as used in endodontic operative notes, case reports, and specialist correspondence. It appears frequently in shorthand operative records and is widely understood within the specialty. Editors should expand it to 'working length (WL)' at first mention in formal reports, case summaries, and any document intended for a non-specialist audience. The abbreviation is always written in uppercase and without periods.
Usage
Usage note: Expand at first use in any document with a non-specialist readership.
In Context
- "Canal shaping was performed to WL in all three canals." — Shorthand operative note
- "WL was confirmed at 21 mm for the palatal root prior to obturation." — Endodontic specialist report
Don't confuse with
WD (working distance in microscopy contexts)