Which statement regarding the reprocessing of instruments is false?

The statement that metal brushes should be used to remove persistent debris is false because using metal brushes on dental instruments can damage their surfaces. Instruments are often made from materials that can be scratched or corroded by harsh cleaning tools, which can compromise their effectiveness and safety for patient use. Instead, softer brushes or alternative cleaning methods and solutions are recommended to preserve the integrity of the instruments during the cleaning process.

Each of the other statements reflects correct protocols in reprocessing instruments. Ensuring that all instruments are sterilized before reuse is crucial for preventing infections and maintaining patient safety. Using a detergent solution when manually scrubbing instruments is important for effective cleaning, as it helps to break down biological debris and ensures instruments are thoroughly sanitized. Additionally, endodontic files are typically single-use, as they can become deformed or damaged after the first use, making it unsafe to reuse them.