Microbial Infection of Orthodontic Synthetic Intermaxillary Elastics in Differents Types of Manipulation: An In Vitro Study

Background: Intermaxillary elastic is considered important sources of energy in orthodontic movement. However, the majority of this type of material, mainly those of Brazilian brands, is sold in packets containing 1000 units, which obliges the orthodontist or assistant to manipulate these, in order to separate them into a smaller quantity for each patient. The care taken by the working team is essential for preserving the integrity of the health of both the team and patients. Aim/objectives: the purpose of this study was to perform an in vitro evaluation of synthetic intermaxillary elastics from different manufacturers, to verify the presence of microorganisms at the time of opening the package and its application, by different forms of manipulation. Methods: 120 synthetic intermaxillary elastics were divided into four groups according to different trademarks and type of manipulation. These were incubated at 37 o C and evaluated after time intervals of 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, 4 days, 7 days and 10 days. The cultures were analyzed by visual inspection and when the culture medium presented turbidity, the presence of contamination was considered. Findings/results: Bacterial contamination was only found in the groups that occurred hand manipulation of the materials. Discussion: The elastics tested in this study presented no evidence of microbial contamination before manipulation; manipulation of the elastics with the use of gloves and sterile forceps prevented contamination by microorganisms; the elastic manipulation with hands is not recommended.