Gutta Percha Cartridges and the Risk of E. Faecalis Cross-Contamination
Abstract
Objective: To determine if gutta percha cartridges have to potential to cross-contaminate root canals with E. faecalis. Gutta percha cartridge disinfection methods were also evaluated. Methods: Fifty-two 23-gauge medium body gutta percha cartridges were evaluated by dipping 10 mm of the cartridge tip into a brain heart infusion (BHI) broth culture containing a set concentration of E. faecalis. One control and three test protocols using the Elements Obturation Unit were evaluated: 1. Bleed cartridge tip 2. Alcohol wipe of cartridge tip 3. Bleed + wipe The cartridges were placed into a recovery tube and ultrasonic bath to remove viable bacteria. The broth was diluted and spread on BHI agar plates incubated at 37 deg C overnight. The CFU/ml recovered was calculated. Results: Viable cultures of E. faecalis were unable to be recovered consistently from the control and the three protocols performed. Conclusions: Cross-contamination of root canals with E. faecalis with the Elements gutta percha cartridge is unlikely.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 08, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1186361
Entities
People
- Whitney A Smith
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences