Changes in the Force Degradation of Orthodontic Elastomeric Chains Subjected to Different Formulations of Chlorhexidine Mouth Rinse: an in Vitro Study

Introduction: The aim of this study was to assess whether various formulations of chlorhexidine mouth rinses had an effect on force characteristics of the elastomeric chains. Methods: The sample consisted commercially available elastomeric chain of 3M Unitek with five commercially used chlorhexidine mouth rinses of different formulations. The e chain were stretched on artificial saliva .30 sec everyday exposure to different chlorhexidine formulation was tested by digital dynamometer and was statisticaly evaluated using ANOVA test. Conclusion: mouthwashes does not accelerate force degradation of elastomeric chains which could clinically affect their effectiveness. However, the results could be variable in the presence of other biological factors in the oral environment and their interactions between oral microorganisms with the host