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Cleaning endodontic files in a washer disinfector
M Assaf1, A C Mellor, A J E Qualtrough
1School of Dentistry, The University of Manchester, Higher Cambridge Street, Manchester M15 6FH.
British Dental Journal
|May 22, 2008
Summary
Washer disinfectors alone cannot fully clean endodontic files. The instrument holding mechanism significantly impacts file cleanliness, with cleaning baskets proving more effective than file holders for debris removal.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Endodontics
- Infection Control
Background:
- Proper cleaning of endodontic files is crucial for infection control.
- Washer disinfectors are commonly used but their efficacy can vary.
- The holding mechanism within these machines may influence cleaning outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the cleanliness of endodontic files after cleaning in a washer disinfector.
- To evaluate the impact of different file holding mechanisms on cleaning efficacy.
Main Methods:
- New endodontic files (size 15-40) were used to prepare canals in extracted teeth.
- Files were divided into three groups: control (no cleaning), file holder group, and cleaning basket group.
- 162 files were cleaned in a washer disinfector using different holding mechanisms and examined for debris under a microscope.
Main Results:
- No cleaned files were entirely free of organic debris.
- Files cleaned using a cleaning basket were significantly cleaner than those in a file holder.
- Both washer disinfector groups showed significantly better cleanliness compared to the control group.
Conclusions:
- Washer disinfectors alone are insufficient for complete endodontic file sterilization.
- The choice of instrument holding mechanism in washer disinfectors significantly affects cleaning efficiency.
- Optimizing the holding mechanism is essential for improving endodontic file cleanliness.
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