Effects of sodium hypochlorite on denture base metals during immersion for short-term sterilization.

The effects on Vitallium and Ticonium alloys immersed in different concentrations of sodium hypochlorite for various immersion times are described. The results of this investigation demonstrate that samples of these metals soaked in 2% sodium hypochlorite for at least 5 minutes or in 5.25% sodium hypochlorite for a minimum of 3 minutes were sterilized and not tarnished or corroded. Although Vitallium alloy was more resistant than Ticonium alloy to the deleterious effects of sodium hypochlorite, either metal can be safely immersed for sterilization purposes under the guidelines presented. Therefore, an effective and economical method for sterilizing removable partial denture frameworks made of chrome-cobalt or chrome-nickel alloys is attainable through the proper use of household bleach.