Mutagenicity and cytotoxicity assessment in patients undergoing orthodontic radiographs.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the present study was to evaluate DNA damage (micronucleus) and cellular death (pyknosis, karyolysis and karyorrhexis) in exfoliated buccal mucosa cells from individuals following radiography.


METHODS
Lateral and frontal cephalometric X-ray and panoramic dental X-rays were taken of a total of 18 healthy patients (6 male and 12 female) referred for orthodontic therapy. Exfoliated oral mucosa cells were collected immediately before X-ray exposure and after 10 days.


RESULTS
The results revealed no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) in the frequency micronucleated oral mucosa cells after X-ray exposure. However, X-ray was able to increase other nuclear alterations closely related to cytotoxicity, such as karyorrhexis, pyknosis and karyolysis.


CONCLUSIONS
Data indicated that exposure to certain radiography may not be a factor in inducing chromosomal damage, but it does promote cytotoxicity.
Angelieri
F
F
Department of Orthodontics, São Paulo Methodist University UMESP, São Paulo, Brazil.
Carlin
V
V
Saez
D M
DM
Pozzi
R
R
Ribeiro
D A
DA
D000293:Adolescent; D002508:Cephalometry / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002875:Chromosomes / Q000528:radiation effects; D004249:DNA Damage; D004847:Epithelial Cells / Q000528:radiation effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015162:Micronucleus Tests; D009061:Mouth Mucosa / Q000166:cytology / Q000528:radiation effects*; D009970:Orthodontics; D011862:Radiography, Panoramic / Q000009:adverse effects*