Efficacy of three different solutions an in vitro comparison of 4 brands of latex and non-latex orthodontic elastics based on force decay

Latex rubber bands are routinely used to deliver orthodontic force in orthodontics. As the incidence of allergic reaction to latex is rising, the use of non -latex alternatives are increasing. So this study was intended to evaluate and compare the force degradation of latex and non-latex intra oral elastics, to know the change in schedule of the elastic wear, check the force values claimed by the manufacturer and to know any differences in force exerted by the elastics from the different batches of the same manufacturer. The initial force delivered by randomly selected latex and non-latex elastics were recorded for extensions of 225%, 300% and 450% using an Instron universal testing machine. Then the elastics were engaged on to a special jig having posts at a distance of 14.8mm, 19.0mm and 28.4mm in order to extend the diameterof the elastics by 225%, 300% and 450% respectively and incubated at 37°C in artificial saliva for 24 and 48 hours of time. The amount of force exerted at these time intervals were measured and the results were tabulated and compared. Mean and standard deviations were calculated for each group. The data was analyzed using ANOVA. The non-latex elastics showed less force decay when compared to latex variant. Force degradation was high during first 24 hours. No significant difference in force exerted was observed between elastics of different batches from the same manufacturer. These results show non-latex elastics are a viable alternative to the latex elastics and elastics should be changed on a daily basis.