Effects of vitamin D deficiency on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement: An animal study

Bone remodeling and orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) are controlled by certain essential molecules, one of which is vitamin D. Increased levels of vitamin D have been associated with increased rates of OTM. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of vitamin D deficiency on the rate of OTM, and to determine their association after applying orthodontic forces. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Wistar rats were divided into two groups: control group with average vitamin D levels and experimental group with induced vitamin D deficiency. Orthodontic appliances were fixed to initiate tooth movement. Distance between the reference teeth were measured in millimeters on day zero, and repeated every 7 days, till day 21. RESULTS: A significant difference within the experimental group was found; as well as within the control group, there was also no significant interaction between time and the type of group. CONCLUSION: The rate of Orthodontic tooth movement was not affected by induced vitamin D deficiency in rats.