Chloramine T: an effective disinfectant for reducing bacterial contamination and preserving dentin

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of dentin decontamination using chloramine T and its impact on the structural integrity of dentin, comparing it with alternative chemical and physical decontamination methods. Methods: Forty-eight sound human third molars were sectioned at the occlusal surface, and the roots were randomly assigned to four disinfection methods: deionized water, UV light, 0.1% thymol, and 1% chloramine T. Dentin slices were incubated in Brain-Heart Infusion broth to assess disinfection (n=3). Knoop hardness was measured (n=6), and scanning electron microscopy was used to observe surface morphology post-disinfection (n=3). Quantitative data analysis involved ANOVA and post hoc Games-Howell tests (α=5%). Results: Deionized water, thymol, and UV light exhibited high absorbance values (2,112±19, 764±67, and 866±75, respectively), while chloramine T displayed no bacterial growth. None of the decontamination methods led to a reduction in dentin hardness (p>0.05), and no significant changes in surface morphology were identified by scanning electron microscopy. Conclusion: Chloramine T demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity while preserving dentin morphology, suggesting it could be a promising disinfectant for dentin decontamination and may improve clinical practices in dental procedures..