In Vivo Evaluation of Micronucleus Frequencies in Buccal Mucosal Cells of Orthodontic Patients with and Without Fluoride Use

Introduction: Fluoride agents to prevent white spot lesions are used often during orthodontic treatment. The beneficial effects of fluoride, when consumed within permissible limits on dental structures, are well known. Their implications on underlying biological tissues, however, are unknown. Mouthwashes and dentifrices with fluorides are associated with metal ion release into the mouth with possible cell genotoxicity. Since these cariostatic agents are frequently used during orthodontic therapy, a deeper understanding of the effects of fluoride on oral tissues was considered necessary. Methodology: Three groups of patients (30 each)—group 1 (untreated controls), group 2 (non-fluoridated), and group 3 (Fluoridated) were analyzed. Patients in groups 2 and 3 were bonded with the same bracket prescription and treated with similar archwire sequences. Buccal mucosal cells at 4 specific time periods (before treatment, 1 week, 30 days, and 6 months) were collected, using a wooden tongue depressor, and assessed for any nuclear abnormalities. Comparisons of changes were made with an untreated control group and also between the non-fluoridated and fluoridated groups. Relevant conclusions were drawn after analysis of the results. Results: Greater number of nuclei were observed at the 30-day time interval in the fluoridated group, which was statistically significant at P < .001. Conclusion: Use of fluoridated oral hygiene products in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment with NiTi archwires could increase the risk of micronuclei formation in buccal mucosal cells.