Abstract

The presence of microorganisms on the surface and inside NDP® intracanal medication tubes was evaluated. This medication is commonly used in endodontic treatment due to its antiinflammatory and antimicrobial action. The research was conducted through a laboratory experiment with 21 tubes previously used by dental students at the university clinic and one unused tube as a control. A test was performed by rolling the tube before and after use to investigate surface contamination, in addition to collecting internal contents, which were incubated in aerobic and anaerobic culture media. The results revealed that 57.14% of the tubes showed microbial growth in an aerobic environment, suggesting environmental contamination, and 42.86% in anaerobic conditions, indicating the possible presence of microorganisms from the oral microbiota. These findings highlight the contamination of the tubes mainly due to improper handling and incorrect storage, which can compromise the effectiveness of endodontic treatment and, more seriously, the patient’s systemic health. It is concluded that the reuse of these tubes represents a significant biological risk and that strict disinfection protocols should be adopted. The single use of NDP® medication tubes is recommended, in addition to the development of reduced-volume packaging and immediate disposal, as a preventive measure to ensure biosafety in dental care.

Keywords

intracanal medication, biosafety, cross contamination, desinfection and antimicrobial action