Abstract

This study investigated specific activities of tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and cumulative canine movement when two orthodontic forces were applied during orthodontic treatment. Each selected subjects (n = 12) randomly received a 100 and 150 g force for canine retraction either on the right or left site of maxillary arch. GCF was collected at the mesial and distal sites of the canines for 5 consecutive weeks where baseline activity served as control. Canine distance was measured before retraction and weekly (5 weeks) after force application. TRAP activity was determined using spectrophotometer. At the distal site of test canine (150 g force), TRAP activity peaked significantly (P < 0.05) at week 4 while tested canine (100 g force) at week 5. At the mesial site of test canine, no significant (P > 0.05) TRAP activities were found between 150 and 100 g of forces. There was significantly (P < 0.05) more cumulative canine movement by 5 weeks in 150 g as compared to 100 g force. TRAP enzyme can be a useful biomarker for monitoring orthodontic tooth movement. A force of 150 g was found to be more optimal in canine retraction than 100 g force.

Key words: Biomarker, bone remodeling, orthodontic forces, tartrate resistant acid phosphatase, tooth movement.