| 0637 Analysis of re-used dental burs' surface after repeated sterilization | ||
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K. KATO, Matsumoto Dental University, Institute for Oral Science, Shiojiri City, Japan, M. KANATANI, Niigata University Graduate School, Niigata City, Japan, and N. TOGAWA, Niigata University Medical and Dental Hospital, Niigata City, Japan Objectives: It has been known that the use of the autoclave leads to corrosion of carbon steel and annealing of the blade of dental burs. The hydrogen peroxide/plasma discharging sterilization at low temperature (HPDS) was developed as measures against these disadvantages. However, after starting the use of HPDS in our hospital, the number of accidents, involving dental bur break have increased. It has been presumed that one of the causes of the accident might be the deterioration of dental burs by the HPDS. In an attempt to clarify this assumption, this study aims to analyze the surface of re-used dental burs after repeated sterilization. Methods: The bur examined was Zekrya burs (burs for surgical use) made of tungsten carbide. They were washed by ultrasonic cleaner or by washer-disinfector, or sterilized by the autoclave or by the HPDS. After repeating the washing or sterilizing process 30 times, the surface of each bur was observed by the Electron Probe Microanalyzer (EPMA) by 7,000-time magnification. Results: 1.The EPMA analysis showed that the surface of the blade of the dental burs sterilized by the autoclave presented a porous aspect, which indicates moderate corrosion. 2. The EPMA analysis showed that the surface of the blade of the dental burs sterilized by the HPDS contained many cracks, which indicates severe corrosion. 3. Ultrasonic cleaner and washer-disinfector did not influence these surfaces. 4. At macroscopic view, the level of the surface deterioration may be distinguished by the darkening tendency of the bur's color. Conclusion: Re-use of dental burs after repeated sterilization might be discussed from the standpoint of the economic efficiency and their material properties. However, regardless of sterilization method dental burs after repeated sterilization are not recommended for the surgical operation to avoid the accident of breaking, because the priority should be given to patients' safety. | ||
| Seq #93 - Metals/Others 2:00 PM-4:00 PM, Thursday, 10 March 2005 Baltimore Convention Center Exhibit Hall E-F | ||
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Back to the Dental Materials: VII - Others-Metallic Program
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