Comparison between Nickel and Chromium Levels in Saliva of Children Having Space Maintainers versus Stainless Steel Crowns (Comparative Study)

Aim The purpose of this study is to investigate and compare the salivary level of nickel and chromium in the children having lingual arch space maintainer appliances versus those having stainless steel crowns (SSC). Subjects A total of 34 patients were selected from those referred to the clinic of pediatric dentistry department and allocated into two groups 17 patients each. The first group will be those in need of lingual arch space maintainer without any other metallic restorations. The second group will be patients in need of two stainless steel crowns restoration also with no other metallic fillings or appliances. Methods The salivary samples will be taken from the patients in four stages before appliances or crowns cementation then after 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months following cementation. The salivary samples will be collected in a plastic tube and will be stored in the freezer before analysis. The samples will be then transferred to the central laboratory in faculty of science Alexandria University, and the levels of metals will be determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometer with an auto sampler. Each sample will be analyzed three times, and the average will be reported to detect accurately the elements levels. Results There was a significant increase in the salivary levels of nickel and chromium elements in both groups after cementation of space maintainer appliances or SSC. The amount of released nickel and chromium were significantly higher in group I when compared to group II. Conclusion The amount of salivary nickel and chromium released after lingual arch space maintainer appliances were more than those after SSC. Also the maximum amounts of released nickel and chromium were much lower than the dietary intake and were not capable of causing any toxicity.