Effect Of Chemical Disinfectants On The Color Stability Of Maxillofacial Silicone Material –In Vitro Study

Introduction : Silicones are used to fabricate maxillofacial prosthetics to restore the lost soft & hard tissues due to trauma, surgery or congenital deformity. Making a prosthesis is a blend of art and science in restoring the quality of life of the patient using coloration and maintaining its longevity. However, keeping the prosthesis clean by using disinfectants can severe its purpose. Methods : Sixty specimens were fabricated using M511 Maxillofacial silicone. The specimens were divided into 3 groups according to the disinfection method (n=20). 20 specimens to be immersed in distilled water (Group – A) and in 2% Chlorhexidine Gluconate (Group – B) & 20 specimens to be rubbed with Antibacterial soap (Group – C) six times a day for a period of 60 days to simulate one year of usage. Color alterations were evaluated once before starting the disinfection procedure and finally after the completion of disinfection period (i.e. 60 days) using spectrophotometer, using CIEL*a*b* system. Data was subjected to statistical analysis (independent t – test and one-way ANOVA F-test). Results : Maximum color alteration was obtained in Group-C treated with antibacterial soap followed by Group-B treated with 2% chlorhexidine solution and least color change was obtained in Group-A treated with distilled water. Conclusion: The method employed for disinfecting maxillofacial prosthesis significantly affects the color property and hence longevity of the prosthesis. 2% Chlorhexidine gluconate can be used effectively for disinfecting the prosthesis and antibacterial soap produced maximum color alteration which was clinically unacceptable.