Allergic Reactions and Nickel-Free Braces: A Review Dave Pavithra H1,*, Dr Abilasha R.2 1BDS, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, No 162, PH Road, Chennai-600077 2Reader, Department of Oral Pathology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Chennai-600077 *Corresponding Author E-mail:: pavithrahdave@yahoo.com
Online published on 12 January, 2017. Abstract Nickel is a constituent of many dental alloys. The aim of this review is to assess the most common allergic reactions reported in orthodontics related to nickel and the use of nickel free braces. A computerized literature search was conducted in PubMed for articles published on allergy in relation to orthodontics and nickel free braces. The MeSH term used was allergy, nickel free braces and orthodontics. Level of nickel in saliva and serum increases significantly after the insertion of fixed orthodontic appliances. Some nickel compounds, which are mildly cytotoxic, have been implicated as carcinogens by inhalation in industrial settings, but these compounds are not present in dental related operations. Studies have implicated allergy in the etiology of hypodontia. It has also been considered as a high risk factor for development of extensive root resorption during the course of orthodontic treatment. This review discusses the relationship and implications of allergy in orthodontics. Nickel-free braces (Ni content-2% max.) seem to represent a viable alternative for orthodontic patients who are allergic to nickel. However, further in vivo studies, considering the immunology characteristics of patients, are needed to determine the clinical implications of the findings of this study. Top Keywords Nickel, Hypersensitivity, Allergy, Brackets. Top |