Testing a new micro-osteoperforation modality on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement in a rabbit model

Objectives. The current study objective was to test and compare the impact of a new micro-osteoperforation (MOP) modality with 2 other modalities on the rate of tooth movement (RTM) in rabbits. Methods. The sample comprises 45 adult male albino rabbits aged 24 weeks and divided equally into 3 groups regarding MOP modalities; a single vertical MOP (1V-MOP), a single vertical MOP + 2 horizontal MOPs (1V+2H-MOP), as the new MOP design; and 3 horizontal MOPs (3H-MOP). The first right mandibular premolar (RMP1) received MOP(s) + orthodontic force 50g by traction spring. The contralateral tooth on left (LMP1), as positive (+ve) control, received only 50g orthodontic force by another spring. Both springs were fixed by a mini-screw between the 2 lower incisors. Evaluations of the clinical RTM and histopathology with H and E stain of the compressed PDL at the cervical, middle, and apical thirds of MP1 root were performed for comparing after 1, 2, and 3 weeks of OTM respectively. Results. The RTM (P<0.001) and number of osteoclasts, osteoblasts, blood vessels and PDL width (P<0.001 to P=0.039) significantly increased in the MOP groups; the 1V+2H-MOP was in between the higher 1V-MO P and the lower 3H-MOP. Conclusion. All MOP modalities could efficiently accelerate RTM and increase the activity of the compressed PDL, but with a variant rate. The new 1V+2H-MOP modality can be chosen as the best modality for faster RTM, because it showed moderate RTM after the 1V-MOP.