Microbiological evaluation in different kinds of orthodontic pliers after disinfection with 70% alcohol

Alessandre Cícero VENTURELLI, Fernando César TORRES, Renata Rodrigues de ALMEIDA-PEDRIN, Renato Rodrigues de ALMEIDA, Marcio Rodrigues de ALMEIDA, Fernando Pedrin Carvalho FERREIRA

Aim: The aim of this study was to verify, by means of microbiological analysis, the contamination in different kinds of orthodontic pliers (Distal End Cutter, Bird Beak, Band Remover and Weingart), after washing with water and detergent and followed by disinfection with 70% alcohol for 1 minute. Methods: All the pliers were, initially, sterilized in autoclave for 20 minutes, at 121ºC and 1atm of pressure. After the orthodontic appointment, the pliers were adequately transported to Microbiology Laboratory and the evaluations of variety and quantity of bacteria were made. Afterward, the same pliers were washed with water and detergent, and rubbed with gauze with 70% alcohol (p/p) for 1 minute. New bacteriological tests were done and compared to a control group of non utilized pliers. Results: Results showed a great quantity and variety of residual bacteria after the disinfection with alcohol. Conclusions: Even pliers not inserted in patient mouth, but only handed by clinician, should be sterilized, once merely disinfection is not an adequate method for infection control.

Keywords: Orthodontics. Disinfection. Sterilization. Microbiology. Infection control.

Sunday, April 28, 2024 19:51