Effect of four different mouthwashes on force-degradation pattern of orthodontic elastomeric chains

Abstract

PurposeElastomeric chains are widely used for exerting force in orthodontics. Since orthodontic patients are prone to plaque accumulation they are usually advised to apply antibacterial agents. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of three different mouthwashes including persica, chlorhexidine, sodium fluoride and the combination of chlorhexidine and sodium fluoride on force decay of orthodontic elastomeric chains.Materials and methodsIn this study, 315 pieces of elastomeric chains were divided into 5 groups: persica, chlorhexidine 0.2%, sodium fluoride 0.2% and the combination of chlorhexidine and sodium fluoride and a control group. The samples were kept in artificial saliva and were soaked in the mouthwashes twice a day for 60 s each time. The control group was kept in artificial saliva throughout the day. The forces exerted by the samples were measured by a universal testing machine at initial, 1 day, 7, 14 and 28 days. To compare the results, repeated measure ANOVA was performed.ResultsA significant force-degradation over time was observed in all groups (p < 0.005). However, there were no significant differences among study groups and between study groups and the control group.ConclusionsApplication of persica, chlorhexidine, sodium fluoride and the combination of chlorhexidine and sodium fluoride mouthwashes had no adverse effect on the force-degradation of orthodontic elastomeric chains.