The action of corticosteroids on orthodontic tooth movement: A literature review

Abstract

Tooth movement is initially characterized by an acute sterile inflammation, followed by sequential multiple reactions in the periodontal ligament in response to biomechanical forces. Pharmacological agents such as corticosteroids may affect the course of orthodontic movement. Scientific studies show antagonistic actions of these drugs on bone resorption during tooth movement. Objective: To review the literature about the effect of corticosteroids on orthodontic tooth movement. Conclusion: Patients should be questioned regarding the use of these drugs in the orthodontic practice and for those who use them, the orthodontic treatment should be differentiated, with longer intervals between visits and periodic X-rays due to the delay in bone formation observed in some scientific studies. © 2012 Dental Press Journal of Orthodontics.