[Bodily movement of teeth in atrophic jaw segments]

This experimental animal study was conducted to evaluate the extent of bone restructuring after bodily movement of teeth into an area of atrophied alveolar bone. The measured values as well as the radiographic and histologic data indicate that partial or total bone restructuring occurs depending on the rate of tooth movement. In our experiment we observed marked bone formation at an average tooth movement rate of 15 microns/day, whereas no noteworthy bone formation occurred at higher rates of tooth movement (26-40 microns/day). Basically, an improvement in attachment is possible with bodily movement in atrophic alveolar bone. However, it is important to remember the delayed periosteal reaction when planning the mechanics to be applied.