OBJECTIVETo investigate effects of the static magnetic field (SMF) generated by dental magnetic attachment on osteoblastic morphology and surface ultrastructure.

METHODSThe in vitro cultured rat osteoblasts were exposed continuously to 12.5 mT, 125 mT, and 250 mT static magnetic fields for 1, 3, 5, and 7 days. After exposed in SMF, osteoblasts were observed under a phase contrast microscope, and then HE stained and observed under a light microscope. In addition, the cells were observed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM).

RESULTSBy continuous exposure, the different intensities of SMF exposure did not change the vital osteoblast growth pattern or distribution. The SEM photos showed that there were certain changes in cellular microstructures for osteoblasts after exposed to 12.5 mT for 5 to 7 days, as well as 125 mT and 250 mT for 3 to 7 days. The more exposure time increased, the more microvesicles on the surfaces of cells were observed.

CONCLUSIONSContinuous SMF-stimulation could not affect the shape, distribution, and growth pattern of osteoblasts. The SMF of magnetic attachments could lead to certain changes in surface ultrastructures of osteoblasts in this study.