Evaluation of Cytotoxic Behavior of Orthodontic Composite Containing Zinc Oxide and Tin Oxide Nanoparticles

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to assess the cytotoxicity of Transbond XT adhesive incorporated with zinc oxide (ZnO) and tin oxide (SnO2) nanoparticles.

Methodology: An orthodontic composite comprising equal proportions of ZnO2 and SnO nanoparticles was synthesized using a hydrothermal method. ZnO and SnO2 nanoparticles were mixed in ethyl alcohol, and the pH was adjusted to 10 - 10.5 with liquor ammonia. The mixture was then added to light-cured orthodontic adhesive (Transbond XT). After ultrasonic treatment and hydrothermal processing, the composite was characterized through SEM, FTIR, and EDAX analyses. The cytotoxicity test was performed on human fibroblast cells using various concentrations of the composite.

Results: SEM analysis revealed distinct surface characteristics. Orthodontic adhesive with SnO2 and ZnO2 nanoparticles exhibited a smooth surface with rod-like structures. SnO2+ZnO2 mixture displayed a coarse, granular surface topography. FTIR confirmed specific functional groups. Peaks indicated the presence of Zn-O and O-Sn-O functional groups within the composite. EDAX analysis yielded quantitative elemental composition. Cytotoxicity assessment demonstrated an increasing cytotoxicity trend with rising particle concentration for all samples. Cell viability consistently above 60% for all concentrations. Notably, fibroblast cell viability at 50% concentration was 87%, indicating cytocompatibility.

Conclusion: The incorporation of ZnO and SnO2 nanoparticles into Transbond XT adhesive yielded a composite with altered surface characteristics. FTIR and EDAX analysis confirmed the presence of specific functional groups and elemental composition. Cytotoxicity assessment indicated that the composite exhibited favorable cell viability, particularly at a 50% concentration, suggesting its potential for cytocompatible applications.