SEM and microbiological analysis of dirt of endodontic files after clinical use and its influence on sterilization process

Matheus Albino Souza, Márcio Luiz Fonseca Menin, Francisco Montagner, Doglas Cecchin, Ana Paula Farina

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the level of cleaning of endodontic files after their use in root canals preparation and its influence on the sterilization process. Methods: Fifty files were divided into two groups — one group of 25 files for analysis in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for verification of cleaning; and another group of 25 files for microbiological analysis in thioglycolate and BHI after sterilization. Results: The results showed that endodontic files had different degrees of dirt on his active part through evaluation by scanning electron microscopy. The bacterial growth wasn’t detected through microbiological test after sterilization. Conclusion: It was concluded that despite the significant presence of dirt on endodontic files in their active part, this dirt doesn’t interfere in the sterilization process.

Keywords: Dirt. Endodontic files. Microbiological test. Scanning electron microscopy.

How to cite: Souza MA, Menin MLF, Montagner F, Cecchin D, Farina AP. SEM and microbiological analysis of dirt of endodontic files after clinical use and its influence on sterilization process. Dental Press Endod. 2011 apr-june;1(1):82-6.

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