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Single-use of endodontic hand files: perceptions and practise
Glynn Dale Buchanan1, Nichola Warren1
1Department of Odontology, School of Dentistry, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
In South Africa, no dentists reported single-use of endodontic files, primarily due to cost. Financial constraints drive reuse, highlighting the need for reprocessing guidelines for these dental instruments.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Instruments
- Infection Control
Background:
- The practice of single-use versus reuse of endodontic files is a debated topic.
- Current data on the extent and attitudes towards single-use endodontic hand files in many regions is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and perceptions of single-use endodontic files.
- To understand the current usage protocols for endodontic files in South Africa.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive observational study design was employed.
- A questionnaire was developed to assess perceptions and usage protocols.
- Data was collected from 27 participating South African dental practices on a voluntary basis.
Main Results:
- No respondents indicated adherence to the single-use protocol for endodontic hand files.
- Various decontamination methods were reported for the reprocessing of endodontic files.
- Financial constraints were identified as the main driver for instrument reuse.
Conclusions:
- The reuse of endodontic files is prevalent in South Africa, largely influenced by economic factors.
- The absence of standardized reprocessing methods necessitates the development of formal guidelines.
- Further research into cost-effective and safe reprocessing protocols is recommended.
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