Evaluation of salivary chromium levels among patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment

Abstract

Aims: The present study was conducted for evaluation of salivary chromium levels among patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. Materials & method: 20 patients who presented to the orthodontic clinic were selected. The salivary samples were taken from the patients in following stages: before appliance placement, one month, and 4 months following appliance placement. The salivary samples were collected in a plastic tube and were stored in the freezer before analysis. The samples were then transferred to the laboratory, and the amounts of metals were determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry with an autosampler. Each sample was analyzed three times, and the average was reported. All the results were recorded and analysed by SPSS software. Results: Mean salivary chromium levels before appliance placement; one month after appliance placement and four months after appliance placement was 2.5 μg/L, 3.9 μg/L and 2.9 μg/L respectively. Significant results were obtained while comparing the alteration in salivary chromium levels. Significant results were obtained while comparing the salivary chromium levels at different time intervals. Conclusion: Corrosion of fixed orthodontic appliances leads to elevated salivary chromium levels early after the initiation of orthodontic treatment.