Effect of Ovariectomy-Induced Menopause on The Rate of Orthodontic Tooth Movement: A Systematic Review of Animal Studies

Abstract

Background: The menopause may theoretically affect the biochemical events leading to orthodontic tooth movement. Aim: To systematically investigate and appraise the quality of the available evidence from animal studies regarding the effect of experimentally induced menopause on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement.

Materials and Methods: Search without restriction for published and unpublished literature and hand searching took place. Controlled studies investigating the effect of ovariectomy-induced menopause on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement were reviewed. Following study retrieval and selection, relevant data was extracted and the risk of bias was assessed using the SYRCLE’s Risk of Bias Tool.

Results: From the initially identified records, finally, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. The majority of the retrieved studies were found to be of an unclear risk of bias. The rate of orthodontic tooth movement in ovariectomized animals was greater than in the control group. This difference between the two groups gradually widened as the duration of force application increased.

Conclusion: Ovariectomy-induced menopause may affect the rate of orthodontic tooth movement. Although the overall quality of evidence only provides the clinician with a iii cautious perspective on the strength of the relevant recommendations, the orthodontist should be capable of identifying such patients and consider the possible implications.