Evaluation of the Physical Behavior, Biocompatibility, and Biosafety of AMCOP Elastodontic Appliances: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction: Elastodontic appliances have become increasingly popular in interceptive orthodontics because they simultaneously address dentoalveolar discrepancies and orofacial dysfunctions while promoting physiological craniofacial growth. Their long-term clinical effectiveness, however, depends not only on treatment protocols but also on the physical stability, biocompatibility, and biosafety of the materials from which they are manufactured. Although laboratory testing and regulatory certifications provide evidence regarding material safety, limited clinical data are available concerning the behavior of these appliances after prolonged intraoral use. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the physical behavior, biocompatibility, and biosafety of AMCOP elastodontic appliances after six months of clinical use through a prospective observational research. Materials and Methods: Ten patients undergoing interceptive orthodontic treatment with AMCOP elastodontic appliances were prospectively monitored for six months. All participants followed an identical clinical protocol consisting of appliance wear for at least one hour during daytime and throughout the night, combined with standardized daily cleaning using liquid Marseille soap. Clinical evaluation included assessment of surface integrity, dimensional stability, maintenance of appliance morphology, elastic behavior, surface wear, permanent deformation, fractures, and overall clinical functionality. Biological outcomes included oral mucosal tolerance, allergic reactions, irritation, patient-reported comfort assessed using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), treatment compliance, transient hypersalivation, and overall patient satisfaction. Results: After six months, no visible dimensional changes were observed on clinical examination in any of the ten appliances. No fractures or clinically apparent structural discontinuities were detected. Minor superficial wear was observed in some appliances. Elasticity was qualitatively rated as preserved in all the appliances. No clinically apparent mucosal irritation, ulcerative lesions, or allergic reactions were recorded in any of the ten patients during follow-up. Patient comfort scores were higher at T6 compared with T0, and transient hypersalivation reported during the initial adaptation period resolved in all patients. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this prospective observational case series, the clinical findings indicate favorable appliance integrity and biological tolerance over six months of intraoral use. No clinically apparent adverse mucosal reactions were recorded. However, the qualitative nature of the physical assessments, the limited sample size, and the absence of instrumental testing do not allow definitive conclusions regarding material properties, comprehensive biocompatibility, or therapeutic effectiveness. Further studies with larger populations, longer follow-up, and objective laboratory assessments are warranted.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Materials, 2026 · DOI ↗