Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the physical properties of 7 brands of standardized endodontic paper cones.

Methodology: Standardized endodontic absorbent paper points, size 30, from 7 different brands of 7 manufacturers were used for this study. Forty absorbent paper cones from each brand were selected at random from packages with assorted cones. A total of 280 cones were tested, all tests were conducted at a temperature of 23 °C.

Results: Three brands of standardized endodontic paper points (Diadent, Kerr, and Pearson) showed significantly higher absorbencies than the remaining 7 brands tasted (p<0.05).

Conclusión: Absorbent paper points, even inside packs sterilized by the manufacturer, may be contaminated. The most reliable method to maintain the aseptic chain during endodontic treatment is the sterilization of paper points before their use, regardless of the commercial type.

Keywords: Paper cones; Paper points; Pain; Apical healing