Factors influencing the accuracy of electronic apex locators: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: The aim of this scoping review (ScR) according to the population, concept,
and context question outline was: What factors can affect the accuracy of electronic apex
locators (EALs) (concept) when determining the root canal terminus of human permanent
teeth (population) in experimental studies (context)?
Materials and Methods: A ScR was performed and reported according to the Preferred Reporting
Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‑Analyses for Scoping Reviews checklist using the following
databases: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest. Studies that investigated the
influence of a factor on the accuracy of the EALs were screened and included according to the
inclusion criteria.
Results: A total of 1761 records were retrieved, leading to 805 studies after duplicates were
removed. Applying inclusion and exclusion criteria resulted in the inclusion of 166 studies. The
20 potential influencing factors include generation/electrical working mechanism, method for
application of EALs, root canal curvature, root canal length, tooth type, maxillary sinus proximity,
lateral foramen, major apical foramen diameter/file size, file alloy, apical patency, preflaring, apical
periodontitis/resorption, internal root resorption, perforation, irrigants, solvents, and medicaments,
pulp contents, pulp vitality, orthodontic brackets, endodontic retreatment, and electromagnetic
interferences were detected.
Conclusion: Although the accuracy of EALs is acceptable in most cases, the use of radiography
along with EALs remains advisable to confirm the measurement in clinical scenarios.
Key Words: Electronic apex locators, endodontics, review, root canal, working length

Highlight

Pedram Iranmanesh: Pubmed,Google Scholar