Early Gingival Crevicular Fluid Biomarkers For Orthodontic Root Resorption

To investigate proteomic alterations in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) during early orthodontic treatment and identify candidate biomarkers for predicting root resorption. Twenty patients undergoing fixed appliance therapy were included, with 15 developing root resorption. GCF samples and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of maxillary central incisors were collected at baseline (T0) and three weeks post-treatment initiation (T1). Root resorption magnitude was determined by CBCT-measured root length differences. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analyzed GCF proteins from the 15 affected patients at both timepoints. Statistically significant differential expression was defined by fold change (FC) >1.5 and P<0.05. Mild root resorption (mean 0.32 ± 1.40 mm) was observed in all 15 cases. Comparative proteomics revealed 759 consistently detected proteins, with 44 demonstrating significant expression changes. Five prominently upregulated proteins—RL11, K1C13, S100A16, K22O, and NIBA2—emerged as strong biomarker candidates. This proteomic profile suggests novel GCF biomarkers for early detection of orthodontic root resorption. Validation studies and clinical translation of these biomarkers into diagnostic protocols are warranted to enhance treatment monitoring.