Experimental tooth movement through regenerate alveolar bone: A pilot study

The purpose of this pilot study was to experimentally evaluate tooth movement through regenerate bone at an early time point during the consolidation phase after bilateral mandibular osteodistraction. Two beagle dogs underwent 10 mm of bilateral mandibular lengthening via intraoral distraction osteogenesis between the fourth premolars and first molars. After 1 week of consolidation, retraction of the fourth premolars was initiated. Immediately after completing premolar retraction, the dogs were sacrificed and the mandibles were analyzed radiographically, histologically, and by dental cast measurements. Initially, all 4 fourth premolars moved distally, with 2 of the 4 touching the first molars at the time of sacrifice. Based on the current data, it is possible to move teeth through regenerate bone, and it appears that tooth movement can begin within weeks of starting the consolidation period.