Effect of Disinfection and Storage Media on the Fracture Strength of Teeth

Introduction: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of disinfection and storage solutions, and time periods on the fracture strength of whole teeth and tooth sections. Method: One hundred and sixty extracted teeth were divided into 16 groups based on disinfection methods, storage times and tooth types. Teeth samples were measured, and areas calculated. Specimens groups were 1. 10% buffered formalin, 2. 0.2% thymol-in-saline, 3. 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 4. OHCWA disinfection protocol, 5. Distilled-water. Each group had storage subgroups of 14, 90 and 180 days. Group 6 (control) were frozen in distilled water for 14 days. Specimens were tested using an Instron Universal tester and load at fracture was analyzed for statistical significance. Results: The NaOCl group showed significantly lower loads at fracture compared to all other storage solutions at corresponding storage times. Distilled-water storage for 90 and 180 days had significantly lower fracture loads, except specimens stored in NaOCl for 14 and 90 days. The area of the specimen, was significantly associated with the magnitude of load at fracture. Conclusions: NaOCl storage significantly affected the fracture strength of teeth. Fracture resistance of teeth was inversely proportional to the storage time and directly proportional to the area of the specimen.