To evaluate the alterations on the surface of gutta-percha cones when exposed to Qmix, 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, 1% peracetic acid, and 2% chlorhexidine and their possible antibacterial effects against Enterococcus faecalis.
Method: Ninety two gutta-percha cones were used in this study. The cones were tested for disinfection according to the type of solution (5.25% sodium hypochlorite, 2% chlorhexidine, 1% peracetic acid, and Qmix) and the time of exposure to each solution (5 or 10 minutes). The cones were contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis. Subsequent to the disinfection, samples were placed in test tubes containing 10 mL Mueller-Hinton broth and incubated at 37˚C for 7 days. All test tubes were observed at 24-hour intervals and visually checked for turbidity, signifying microbial growth. Then the samples were analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy to assess, respectively, the topography and chemical elements present on their surface. The data obtained were evaluated using the Pearson chi-square test with a P value set at <.05.
Result:
The statistics revealed that there was no statistically significant difference between irrigation solutions in the disinfection of samples contaminated with E. faecalis for both 5 and 10 minutes (p> 0.05). SEM analysis showed no alteration in the superficial features of the cones after the immersion in the solutions.
Conclusion:
QMix is an effective agent for a rapid disinfection of gutta-percha cones. All irrigation solutions were found to have sterilized the gutta-percha cones at all tested time periods.