Mecanismos moduladores neuroinmunológicos de la acupuntura en el tratamiento de ortodoncia

Abstract

The main objectives of the orthodontic treatment are to generate correct occlusion and adequate dental alignment, which is reflected in the health of the orofacial tissues. During this treatment, dental movements are required to correct bite arches. These movements result from remodeling the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone in response to a mechanical load that generates local inflammation. This local inflammation can generate side effects that promote treatment abandonment if not adequately modulated. On the other hand, acupuncture through psychoneuroimmunological control mechanisms modulates inflammatory responses. Therefore, this review aims to analyze the acupuncture mechanisms of modulation of the immune system, give an overview of the possible applications of this medical specialty as a complement to orthodontic treatment to improve its efficiency, and open new questions that promote the generation of new lines of research.