Sterilization in endodontics: Knowledge, attitude, and practice of dental assistants in training in Nigeria – A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: To assess the level of knowledge and practice of sterilization of endodontic instruments among future dental surgery assistants undergoing training. Methodology: Data were collected by means of a self-administered questionnaire consisting of demographics, the knowledge of the respondents with regard to sterilization techniques for endodontic files/reamers and handpieces, the attitude of the respondents to transmission of infection from unsterilized endodontic instruments, the sterilization techniques practiced by the respondents for endodontic instruments and materials, and the source of training/knowledge regarding endodontic sterilization. The data were subjected to statistical analysis in the form of descriptive statistics, frequencies, mean and standard deviation. Results: Steam autoclave and dry heat sterilizer were the most reported options for sterilization of endodontic files and reamers. About 95.6% of the respondents claim that they often sterilize endodontic instruments in the course of their training. About 83.3% never sterilize gutta-percha while 50.0% claim they always sterilize new files and reamers before initial use. About 82.2% thought infection could always be transmitted from patient to patient if unsterilized files are used for endodontic treatment. Conclusion: The dental assistants in this study appear to have a fair knowledge of endodontic instrument sterilization; however, they need to expand their scope of practice beyond what is available for use.