Biocompatibility evaluation of orthodontic composite by real-time cell analysis

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Orthodontic treatments utilize light-cured composites for bonding brackets.
• Evaluating the biocompatibility of these materials is crucial for patient safety and oral tissue health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the cytotoxic effects of three distinct light-cured orthodontic composites: Light Bond, Grengloo, and Kurasper F.
• To determine the impact of leached components from these composites on human gingival fibroblast (HGF) vitality.

Main Methods:

• Human gingival fibroblasts were exposed to extracts from the three orthodontic composites.
• Cell viability was monitored using the xCELLigence system over 121 hours, following ISO 10993-5 standards.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare cell indexes between test groups and an untreated control.

Main Results:

• No significant cytotoxicity was observed at 24 and 48 hours for any composite.
• Light Bond exhibited significant cytotoxicity at 72 hours.
• At 96 hours, both Light Bond and Grengloo showed significant reductions in HGF cell index compared to the control, while Kurasper F did not.

Conclusions:

• Orthodontic composite materials can release biologically active components that affect oral tissues.
• The choice of biocompatible orthodontic bonding composites is essential to minimize adverse effects on gingival fibroblasts.
• Kurasper F demonstrated superior biocompatibility among the tested materials.