Biocompatibility of orthodontic bands following exposure to dental plaque

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the biocompatibility of orthodontic bands following exposure to the human oral environment.

Methods

Cell adherence and cell morphology of gingival fibroblasts grown on 32 orthodontic bands were tested. The bands were in place intraorally for 6 to 37?months.

Results

We observed cell adherence in 76% of the previously plaque-free surfaces. Cell morphology was 50% spherical and 50% elongated. The surfaces that had had plaque attached demonstrated cell adherence in 84% of the given areas; those cells were spherical in 42% and elongated in 58%.

Conclusion

We conclude that individual oral hygiene habits during orthodontic treatment seem to have no effect on the biocompatibility of orthodontic bands, as we failed to discern a difference in either cell adherence or cell morphology in areas with and without prior plaque attachment.