Effect of NSAIDs in the Tooth Movement in Orthodontic Treatment

Background: Patients undergoing tooth movement in orthodontics often utilize non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) to alleviate inflammation and discomfort. On the other hand, the orthodontic profession is still debating whether or not NSAIDs slow down or hinder tooth mobility. Materials and Methods: About 60 mouths that needed their teeth moved participated in a randomized controlled experiment. There were two groups of patients: Group A received NSAIDs (ibuprofen, 400 mg), while group B received a placebo. Tooth movement was measured using digital calipers at baseline and then at intervals of 4 weeks over a period of 12 weeks. Results: The mean rate of tooth movement in group A was 1.5 ± 0.3 mm per month, whereas in group B it was 1.8 ± 0.4 mm per month. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in the rate of tooth movement between the two groups, with group B demonstrating faster tooth movement compared to group A. Conclusion: The administration of NSAIDs during orthodontic treatment appears to have a modest but statistically significant inhibitory effect on the rate of tooth movement. Clinicians should consider the potential impact of NSAIDs on treatment outcomes when managing pain and inflammation in orthodontic patients.