Utilizing vibration as a method for accelerating tooth movement during orthodontic treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of adjunctive vibration in reducing orthodontic treatment duration and alleviating pain in human patients, providing an evidence-based foundation for future research and clinical decision-making. Materials and methods: Comprehensive searches and screening were conducted across online databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) and manually until April 2024 using a well-defined search strategy. Study quality was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations approach, and the Risk of Bias was evaluated with the ROB-2 tool. Orthodontic tooth movement was compared via mean changes in Little’s Irregularity Index (LII) and rate of canine retraction, while pain levels were assessed using VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) scores. The summary estimate is presented as standardized mean differences (SMD) with significance at p < 0.05. Sensitivity analyses and funnel plots were also incorporated. Results: From 5,492 studies, 21 randomized controlled trials were included after screening, with 12 analysed quantitatively. The SMD for LII, rates of canine retraction, and VAS scores were 0.16(−0.11–0.43), 2.48(0.90–4.07), and −0.31(−0.68–0.06), respectively. While canine retraction rates showed significant differences between groups, heterogeneity was high (I2 = 96%). Evidence quality was moderate, and no publication bias was detected. Conclusion: The included studies showed deviations from intended interventions. The results suggest no definitive conclusions regarding the effectiveness of vibration in enhancing orthodontic tooth movement or managing pain.