The role of fibroblasts in the remodeling of periodontal ligament during physiologic tooth movement

Our findings indicate a cellular basis for the connective tissue remodeling which takes place during physiologic tooth movement. This cell is the fibroblast which is capable of synthesizing and degrading collagen simultaneously and, utilizing this ability, the orderly control of collagen remodeling within the periodontal ligament is possible. It is suggested that this cellular basis of connective remodeling will have a direct significance for orthodontic tooth movement once control mechanisms have been established.