Periodontal Health and Biological Responses During Orthodontic Treatment: A Narrative Review of Clinical Evidence and Emerging Strategies

Abstract

In Orthodontic treatment tooth movement is facilitated by changes in periodontal alignment and alveolar bone. During the course of treatment there is substantial deposition and formation of plaque, tartar, gingival inflammation, gingival recession, alveolar bone changes, and root resorption which remains a cause of concern. The main objective is to synthesis data from these references which narrate about the clinical concern, periodontal changes, complications, and timely intervention with emerging therapeutic approach. This literature review solely used reviews and evidences from the reference articles collected from database. Orthodontic tooth movement is biomechanical in nature. It involves periodontal tissue remodelling at cellular level where in osteoclast activity has been observed. Patient undergoing orthodontic treatment are screened for periodontal health prior to treatment. Orthodontic treatment and periodontal health maintenance are inter-disciplined areas. Limited evidence suggests improvement in periodontal conditions after orthodontic treatment in periodontally compromised individuals. Gingival recession and root resorption are multifactorial in nature, but studies show improvement in periodontal health after using clear aligners. Orthodontic treatment involves meticulous planning according to the age of the patient, any long term health issue, underlying alveolar bone condition, periodontal health, oral hygiene, and long term maintenance phase.