Effect of orthodontic treatment on alveolar bone thickness in adults: a systematic review

This review aimed at evaluating changes in alveolar bone thickness after completion of orthodontic treatment. Only prospective clinical studies that reported bone thickness in adult patients undergoing non-surgical orthodontic treatment were considered eligible. MEDLINE, EMBASE and LILACS databases were searched for articles published up to July 2018. A total of 12 studies met the selected criteria. Most of the studies showed that orthodontic treatment produces a reduction in bone thickness of incisors, mainly at the palatal side. On patients undergoing different orthodontic treatment techniques, there was a significant bone thickness reduction, mainly on the palatal side. These findings are relevant and have to be considered in diagnosis and planning of tooth movement, in order to prevent the occurrence of dehiscence and fenestration in alveolar bone.