Sterilization of endodontic files with oxygen plasma

Abstract

The present paper reports the effectiveness of a new sterilization technique for endodontic files contaminated with Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus in oxygen plasma formed through a continuous electric discharge of 75 mA. The results demonstrated effective elimination of the tested microorganisms, using a process in low temperatures and which requires less time than that established for conventional processes (Pasteur’s oven and autoclave). Gram-positive microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, require more time of plasma bombardment than Gram-negative microorganisms. Files contaminated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli were sterilized within a 1-minute exposure, while Staphylococcus aureus required 10 minutes.