The effect of cleaning procedures on fracture properties and corrosion of NiTi files

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the effect of repeated cleaning procedures on fracture properties and corrosion of nickel-titanium (NiTi) flies. Methodology: New NiTi instruments were subjected to 2, 5 and 10 cleaning cycles with the use of either diluted bleach (1% NaOCl) or Milton's solution (1% NaOCl plus 19% NaCl) as disinfectant. Each cleaning cycle consisted of scrubbing, rinsing and immersing in NaOCl for 10 min followed by 5 min of ultrasonication. Files were then tested for torsional failure and flexural fatigue, and observed for evidence of corrosion using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Four brands of NiTi flies were immersed in either Milton's solution or diluted bleach overnight and evalua..