Improving tooth stability after orthodontic treatment using a new delivery method.
Local Sustained Delivery of Osteoprotegerin via Hydroxyapatite Microparticles to Enhance Post-Orthodontic Tooth Stability
This study is exploring a new way to keep your teeth in place after braces by using tiny particles that help deliver a special protein, making it less likely for your teeth to shift back to where they started, so you can enjoy your smile without worrying about extra treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10843734 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to enhance the stability of teeth after orthodontic treatment by using hydroxyapatite microparticles to deliver osteoprotegerin, a protein that helps regulate bone metabolism. The goal is to reduce the risk of teeth shifting back to their original positions, which can lead to dental issues and additional treatment costs. By minimizing reliance on patient compliance for retention, this method aims to provide a more effective solution for maintaining tooth alignment. The research utilizes a combination of biological techniques to promote bone growth and inhibit bone loss around the teeth.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently completed orthodontic treatment and are at risk of tooth relapse.
Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone orthodontic treatment or those with severe underlying dental or bone conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the occurrence of tooth relapse after orthodontic treatment, leading to better long-term dental health and lower costs for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in animal models using similar biological approaches to reduce orthodontic relapse, indicating potential for success in clinical applications.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cuylear, Darnell — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Cuylear, Darnell
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.