Effect of Triton all-in-one irrigant on electronic working length determination using two apex locators: an in vitro study

Background This study evaluated whether Triton, a newly introduced all-in-one irrigant, affects the accuracy of electronic working length determination, and compared two electronic apex locators (Ai-Pex, Propex Pixi) under different irrigant conditions. Materials and Methods Forty-four extracted single-rooted human teeth were embedded in alginate. Actual working length was determined under a dental operating microscope. Specimens were assigned to four groups (Triton, 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, 10% citric acid, dry canal). Electronic working lengths were measured with Ai-Pex and Propex Pixi using #15 K-files. Statistical analyses were performed using one-way and two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) following normality assessment, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results No significant differences occurred among Triton, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, and citric acid groups ( p > 0.05). Dry canal measurements were significantly longer than the actual working length measured under a dental operating microscope ( p < 0.05). Both apex locators showed comparable accuracy. Conclusions Triton did not reduce apex locator precision, supporting its potential as a time-saving irrigant that permits simultaneous irrigation and measurement. Further clinical validation is required.