Cytotoxicity of orthodontic elastics

The neon-colored orthodontic rubber bands have recently become remarkably popular to wear among the young patients. In this study we examined if the dyes used in the manufacture of these elastics might exhibit any toxic effects. Gingival fibroblasts were exposed to extracts of colored and plain elastics in vitro. Cytotoxicity was examined by cellular proliferation rate and viability. Results showed that both the plain and the colored elastics display identical toxic effects. This ex vivo cytotoxicity, however, could not be observed in orthodontic patients: gingival fibroblast viability is no different in patients with and without rubber band wear. We conclude that in in vitro conditions, all orthodontic rubber bands are cytotoxic. Clinically, however, this effect is not demonstrable.