Effect of sterilization methods on the absorption capacity of absorbent paper points

Abstract

A BSTR A CTdifferent brands of standardized absorbent paper points, testing the hypothesis that there is a positive correlation between the percentage of increased absorption capacity and sterilization method. Standardized endodontic absorbent paper points (size rank from #15 to #40) from three different brands of three manufacturers were used for this study (Dentsply, Endopoints, Tanari). Twenty absorbent paper points of each size were used. The initial weight (iw) of each absorbent paper point was recorded using a digital scale. After sterilization, the dry weight (dw) of each absorbent paper point was determined. Each paper point was then introduced into a 2% methylene blue solution during 20 seconds until complete saturation. The paper points were removed from the solution and the wet weight (ww) was determined, with absorption capacity calculated from a difference between ww-dw. Data was statistically analyzed using Tukey's test and the Student's t-test (p<0.05). Tanari paper points exhibited the best absorption capacity among the brands analyzed, but the difference K EYWORDS

Contamination of paper points used by students during preclinical and clinical endodontic procedures

“…Because autoclave sterilization is the most widely used method in dentistry owing to its speed and efficiency, it was decided that this investigation would determine whether this method affects the points of one of the brands most commonly used by students. This study found that there is no change in this characteristic, which has been reported by other studies [6,18,19].…”

“…The absorbent points are usually made up of cellulose with an added binder which imparts rigidity and prevents it from coming apart during use. Points are sold in assorted packaging of various sizes, diameter, and quantity, and must have the specifications of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) [6]. Their characteristics include the capacity to absorb any type of fluid; having a uniform length; having a straight point shape; being white and odorless; having sufficient integrity under dry or wet conditions to prevent the release of fibers; and being free of microorganisms [6].…”