Surgically facilitated experimental movement of teeth: systematic review

Several surgical techniques based on corticotomy and dental distraction have been developed to improve the movement of teeth and reduce the duration of orthodontic treatment. In this systematic review we have critically assessed published studies on the experimental movement of teeth to find out whether operations such as corticotomy and dental distraction osteogenesis increase the rate of movement, and to find out which biological mechanisms are engaged during surgically facilitated orthodontics, and which complications may be seen. We searched PubMed and Embase for publications until January 2014 and screened the titles and abstracts. Articles that met the inclusion criteria were retrieved in full and assessed independently by 2 of the authors. A total of 22 studies were included, and corticotomy and distraction techniques were the main surgical methods. Generally, all studies reported that movement of teeth was faster after operation than with conventional orthodontics. The peak velocity was always at an early postoperative stage regardless of the surgical technique used. Immunohistological data showed simultaneous regional increases in catabolic and anabolic activity. Histomorphometric data showed more direct resorption of bone and less hyalinisation after operation, and a reduced bone volume density around the surgical site. When present, complications such as root resorption or periodontal problems were minimal. Current experimental animal studies show that procedures such as corticotomy and dental distraction can accelerate the movement of teeth without severe complications because of the regional increase in catabolic and anabolic remodelling.