Osteoblastic and Osteoclastic Activity

When force is applied to a tooth consistently, such as with aligners, tooth movement is possible due to osteoblastic and osteoclastic activity.

The consistent pressure first breaks down bone in the jaw in a process called osteoclastic activity. This allows the tooth to move. While this is occurring, osteoblastic activity is building up new bone in the space left behind the moving tooth.

This process takes approximately 48-72 hours to begin, and the longer the force is applied, the more consistent this process is. On the flip side, it only takes around four hours for it to stop. Once it stops, it takes time for it to start back up again.

This is important to remember, as leaving aligners out for even a few hours can halt tooth movement for several days. It also means that the most important work is being done during the first few days of a new aligner, or step, as this is when the aligner is applying maximum force.

When educating your patients, it is helpful to make sure they understand this process. Help them to realize the importance of wearing their aligners as much as possible—at least 22 hours a day. It is also a good idea to keep in mind that if aligners must be removed for an extended time, it is best to avoid this during the first few days of a new step.

Related Topics and Information:

Click to learn more about Common Tooth Movements and Benefits of Correcting Malocclusion.

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