The Effect of Corticosteroids on Orthodontic Tooth Movement – A Review

Greater awareness about the benefits of orthodontic treatment and increasing life expectancy is encouraging an increasing number of adult patients to seek orthodontic treatment. This presents new opportunities for the speciality of Orthodontics. But along with the opportunities there are also a new set of challenges. Adult patients are more likely to suffer from systemic diseases and consequently there is an increased likelihood that they would be under various kinds of medications. A group of drugs which is widely used for treating and ameliorating the pain and suffering of millions around the world today is – Corticosteroids. It has been established that corticosteroids possess potent anti-inflammatory and immunemodulating properties. It has also been shown to have an effect on orthodontic tooth movement. This paper attempts to understand the mechanism of action of corticosteroid and its effects on the process of orthodontic tooth movement based on available scientific data and research.