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Gutta-percha: a look at the need for sterilization
M S Namazikhah1, D M Sullivan, G L Trnavsky
1Endodontic Department, Advanced Endodontic Program, University of Southern California, School of Dentistry, 925 W. 34th St., Room 124C, Los Angeles, CA 90089-0641, USA.
Journal of the California Dental Association
|April 28, 2001
Summary
Commercially sourced gutta-percha cones are not typically contaminated. This finding suggests that chemical decontamination of gutta-percha before root canal obturation is unnecessary if the material is not intentionally contaminated.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Microbiology
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- Concerns exist regarding potential contamination of gutta-percha cones used in root canal obturation.
- The necessity of chemical decontamination for gutta-percha prior to clinical use remains a debated topic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the microbial contamination levels of commercially available gutta-percha cones as supplied by manufacturers.
- To determine if routine chemical disinfection is required for gutta-percha before root canal filling.
Main Methods:
- Commercially sourced gutta-percha cones were obtained directly from their original packaging.
- Samples were analyzed to evaluate the presence and extent of microbial contamination.
Main Results:
- The study found no significant microbial contamination on gutta-percha cones directly from the manufacturer's packaging.
- No intentional contamination was introduced to the gutta-percha samples during the evaluation.
Conclusions:
- Routine chemical decontamination of gutta-percha cones is not necessary prior to root canal obturation.
- The risk of contamination is minimal unless the gutta-percha is intentionally compromised.