Quantitative and Qualitative in vivo Analysis of Metal Residuals in the Saliva of Subjects with and without Fixed Orthodontic Appliances

Aim of the Work: The aim of this work was to evaluate Ni e Cr ions in the saliva of subjects with and without fixed orthodontic appliances. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, non-randomized study of 100 patients, so selected: 50 have undergone fixed orthodontic appliance at least from 24 months; others 50 subjects as control-group, without any fixed and/or removable orthodontic appliance It was conducted according to the Declaration of the World Medical Association of Helsinki. The two selected groups were compatible for age, sex, absence of restoration in amalgam or other metals in the oral cavity. The saliva of all the subjects was collected with standardized sterile methods. The samples were analyzed with an atomic absorption spectrophotometer instrument. Results: Absolute values of the salivary metal ions in the subjects with fixed orthodontic appliances are more than the values observed in the control group, but these values are within the normal range. Conclusion: The results show a greater presence in saliva of Ni and Cr ions in the group with fixed orthodontic device. This research must be deepened because ions released in saliva can have effects both locally and in distant districts.