Orthodontic tooth movement and bioelectricity

Research in the field of orthodontics is now focused on the biology of tooth movement. Advanced molecular biology techniques has showed the researchers new avenue towards finding answers to the questions asked for the last few decades. Now it is possible for the researches to explore the lacunae in the field. One such field is, pharmaco-therapeutically or electrophysiologically enhancing the rate of tooth movement, improving the stability of the results, augmenting the anchorage. The voltage gated channels of cell membrane of connective tissue cells of the periodontal ligament can be modulated by electrophysiological ways. The application of an electric current may alter the electrolytic environment allowing changes in the type and rate of ions that move across the cell membranes. Changes of the flux of K+, Ca++, Na+, Mg+, and Cl. can act as a mediator for cellular changes. Micro-pulsed electrical stimulation could reach bone osteoblasts non-invasively and this current can result in an increase in the cAMP and cGMP. These cyclic nucleotides are a type of second messenger, which play a role in the efficient remodeling of alveolar bone and in including more tooth movement. This article discusses the role of electrical potential in orthodontic tooth movement, methodology of studying the electrophysiology of cell membrane and the recent advances in the field and its possible clinical application.