Abstract:

Objective:The present study investigated the expression level of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) during the movementof experimental orthodontic teeth irradiatedwith low-power laser, in orderto explore the effectof local irradiationwith low-power laser on the bone remodeling during orthodontic tooth movement.Methods:Rabbits were given local irradiation with low-power laser during the movementof their teeth inducedwith the experimental orthodontic appliance. BMP in periodontal tissue of the orthodon- tic teeth was examined quantitatively using immunohistochemical stain and image analysis system.Results:The expression level of BMP increased in a higher level in the early stage and lasted for a long time in the compression and tension area on the side irradi- ated with low-power laser than on the side without laser irradiation.Conclusion:During the movement of orthodontic teeth, local irradiationwith low-power could increase the expression of BMP. It suggests that the irradiationwith low-power laser could promote bone remodeling and accelerate the movement of orthodontic teeth.

Key words: bonemorphogeneticprotein, orthodontictoothmovement, irradiation, low_powerlaser, boneremodeling, imageanalysis