title: Microbiologically-influenced corrosion of orthodontic alloys: a review of proposed mechanisms and effects.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To summarise the currently available evidence on the effects of microorganisms on the corrosion processes of biomaterials, with specific relevance to orthodontic alloys.
  
  
  METHODS
  Factors related to the micro-environmental milieu, conditions, site characteristics, microbial species, enzymes and compounds released in response to their attachment to surfaces and formation of biofilms are analysed with respect to their contributory roles in corrosion.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Application to orthodontics is projected from relevant evidence, albeit hypothetical due to the lack of extensive investigations of the subject. The micro-organisms involved and effects observed in orthodontic alloys are summarised. Finally, protective measures are proposed to minimise the potential for corrosion processes in orthodontic patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.
authors.forename: Konstantina
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Papadopoulou
authors.forename: Theodore
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Eliades
mesh_terms: D001422:Bacterial Adhesion; D018441:Biofilms; D003343:Corrosion; D003722:Dental Alloys; D005798:Genes, Bacterial / Q000502:physiology; D042743:Leptothrix / Q000378:metabolism; D009967:Orthodontic Appliances / Q000382:microbiology*; D011135:Polysaccharides, Bacterial / Q000378:metabolism; D013295:Streptococcus mutans / Q000378:metabolism; D016999:Sulfur-Reducing Bacteria / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D003722:Dental Alloys; D011135:Polysaccharides, Bacterial