Effectiveness of guided endodontics in locating calcified root canals: a systematic review

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study is to answer the question: "Is guided endodontics an effective technique for locating calcified canals?".

Methods: A systematic search was carried out by two independent authors in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Scielo databases. According to the PIOS criteria, observational studies, ex vivo studies, clinical case reports, and case series were included. The quality of evidence of observational studies, case reports, and case series were assessed using the respective Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool, and a previous personalized tool was used to assess the quality of the ex vivo studies.

Results: Forty-five studies were included. Of them, 21 were clinical case reports, 11 case series, 12 ex vivo studies, and 1 cohort study. Of the 45 studies analyzed, 43 reported that guided endodontics is an effective and precise technique to access the permeable portion of calcified canals. Only 2 studies report accidents or failures related to the use of endodontic guides.

Conclusions: Guided endodontics allows conservative access, minimizes accidents, and is effective in locating calcified canals; however, it is a technique that still presents limitations.

Clinical relevance: Guided endodontics has been proposed as a simple and effective technique for the treatment of calcified canals. The expansion of this technique requires knowing its benefits and limitations to ensure success and avoid accidents.

Keywords: Cone beam CT; Endodontics; Guided endodontics; Pulp canal; Systematic review.