Cleanliness of endodontic files after use and before sterilization

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of two endodontic file cleaning methods: manual and with the use of ultrasonic vat Method: Sixty-six endodontic files were used for root canal preparations and afterwards divided into three groups: 1) manual cleaning; 2)ultrasonic cleaning; 3) files used in patients, but were not cleaned (positive control).Results: Statistical analysis showed that in the case of manually cleaned files, the percentage of cleaning was 0.4% while in those that were dirty it was 99.6%. In the case of ultrasonic cleaning, the cleaning percentage was 49.21% while the percentage of dirt was 50.79%. Conclusion: The most satisfactory result was obtained with the use of ultrasound, and it is suggested that after ultrasound, brushing, the use of liquid soap and water, and drying should be performed for adequate cleaning of endodontic files.

Keywords

• instrumentos odontológicos
• endodontia
• esterilização
• endodontic file
• cleanliness
• sterilisation