ORTHODONTIC TOOTH MOVEMENT AND NEURAL MODULATION. IS THERE A LINK?

Orthodontic tooth movement is induced by mechanical stimuli and facilitated by remodelling of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. A precondition for the remodelling activities and tooth displacement is the occurrence of an inflammatory process. The neurons and bone cells involved in the remodelling required for orthodontic tooth movement share numerous molecular components. It is generally accepted that the nervous system contributes to the pathophysiology of peripheral inflammation, and a neurogenic component has been implicated in many inflammatory diseases, including OTM. This review focuses on the accumulating evidence suggesting that neuropeptides have a pivotal role in the complex cascade of chemical activity associated with periodontal inflammation during OTM.