An in vitro assessment of microbial contamination of “As received” and “bench-top exposed” orthodontic materials

Abstract

Introduction: The assumption of sterility of packed materials used in orthodontics may lead practitioners to use them without the necessary sterilization. Hence, this study was undertaken to assess the microbial contamination of the orthodontic materials “as received” from the manufacturers and materials exposed in the clinical environment before using it in the patient. Materials and Methods: Orthodontic materials obtained from 3 different manufacturers (3M, GAC, TP Orthodontics) were divided into 2 categories (“as received” from the manufacturers and “bench top” materials exposed to the clinical environment).Microbiological investigation was carried out using aerobic and anaerobic culture media. Identification of Bacterial species was done and colony forming units (CFU/ml) were measured. Result: The most commonly used orthodontic materials were found to be contaminated. The species identified were Klebsiella, Streptococci and Citrobacter from elastomeric chains, molar bands, buccal tubes and lingual sheaths. Conclusion: new packed materials are not always free from bacterial contamination and it is pivotal for manufacturers to state and the practitioners to ensure the sterility of materials before using in oral cavity. Keywords: Orthodontic materials, Microbial contamination, Sterilization.