Predictive models for bone remodeling during orthodontic tooth movement: a scoping review on the “biological metamaterial” periodontal ligament interface

Orthodontic tooth movement is the fundamental phenomenon underlying the treatment of dental malocclusions. For orthodontic treatment to be efficient and effective, the amount of force applied to the teeth for every kind of movement should be appropriately dosed, because it is associated with the risk of side effects and the treatment time. However, our knowledge of the complex cascade of events that transforms a mechanical stimulus into an ordinated bone remodeling is incomplete. Predictive theoretical numerical models could be of invaluable help in understanding the bone response to orthodontic loading and in studying the effects of complex orthodontic force systems. However, either short-term or evolutive predictive models showed a large heterogeneity of material properties and governing equations. The present review provides an outline of the physical and biochemical basis of orthodontic tooth movement with a focus around the periodontal ligament interface. The use of a standardized method for designing predictive models is advocated, and perspectives for future studies are presented.