Number of osteoclasts, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-b ligand and osteoprotegerin expression in electrolyzed reduced water-treated orthodontic tooth movement in Wistar rats

Purpose: To analyse the potential use of electrolyzed reduced water effect (ERW) in the treatment of orthodontic tooth movement in Wistar rats by means of osteoclast number, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) expressions. Methods: ERW was produced by an electrolysis machine that rendered the water pH alkaline. A dose of ERW 2.5 ml/100 g body weight was used for treatment for 7 days. The orthodontic tooth movement animal study was done by means of a rubber separator, with 0.0284 N force applied to the maxillary incisive tooth for 7 days. The rats were euthanized on days 3, 5 and 7 with the maxilla bone subsequently removed for immunohistochemistry examination. RANKL and OPG expression were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining and the osteoclast number determined with the aid of haematoxylin-eosin stain. Results: ERW decreased the osteoclast number in the treatment group on day 3 and OPG expression on day 7 and there was significant difference between the groups (p < 0.05). RANKL expression decreased on Day 7. There was a significant difference between treatment groups on Days 5 and 7. Conclusion: ERW significantly inhibits the number of osteoclasts, RANKL and OPG expression during orthodontic tooth movement after 3 and 7 days. ERW is thus a potential therapy for enhancement of bone remodeling in patients with orthodontic tooth movement.