Evaluation of the effect of systemic omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on post-orthodontic relapse in a rabbit model

Introduction: Long term stability is the major goal of orthodontic treatment. Hence, a series of safe pharmacological agents have been investigated to increase osteoblastic activity around orthodontically moved teeth to help in retention and stability of their correction. Aim of the study: To evaluate the effect of systemic administration of Omega-3 fatty acids on post-orthodontic relapse, and to histologically assess bone changes concurrent with its administration in rabbits. Materials and Methods: Thirty two adult albino male rabbits were divided equally and randomly into two groups. Each group received NiTi coil springs installed on mandibular first molars and ligated to anterior incisors. Omega-3 or Saline were given from day one of orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) till end of relapse period by oral gavage. After 21 days of active OTM, appliances were removed from both groups to allow orthodontic relapse (OR); then amount and percentage of relapse were measuredon days 21, 28 and 42. Animals were sacrificed for histomorphometric analysis of alveolar bone remodeling. Results: A significant difference in relapse percentage was found on the third week of OR with means (66.04 ± 6.01 %) and (75.22 ± 13.61%) for experimental and control groups, respectively. Histomorphometric analysis showed a significant reduction in the area of active bone-resorptive lacunae and a significant increase in newly formed bone area related to omega-3 group. Conclusions: A strong evidence of the osteoblastic simulative effect of Omega-3 had been found with decreased percentage of OR after OTM.