Effect of experimental tooth movement on nerve fibres immunoreactive to calcitonin gene-related peptide, protein gene product 9.5, and blood vessel density and distribution in rats.

The effect of experimental tooth movement on nerve fibers immunoreactive to calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and to protein gene product (PGP) 9.5 were studied, as well as the coincidence of these responses with changes in blood vessel density and distribution in the periodontal ligament (PDL) and pulp of young Wistar rats. The first right maxillary molar was moved mesially by an orthodontic appliance for 3, 7, 14 and 21 days. Sagittal and horizontal serial sections were incubated alternately with antibodies to CGRP, PGP 9.5 and laminin. Nerve and blood vessel density and distribution between the experimental and control sides were compared in the apical and cervical PDL, and in root and coronal pulp. The most pronounced changes occurred in the 7 day group. CGRP and PGP 9.5 immunoreactive nerves in the apical PDL showed increased density, being distributed towards the alveolar bone and frequently found in bone resorption lacunae. Numerous nerve fibres were often present adjacent to hyalinized tissue, but were never found near or within root resorption lacunae. Nerve sprouting was also present both in the root and coronal pulp. Increased nerve and blood vessel density generally coincided with each other. At day 14, periodontal nerves and blood vessels were still disorganized compared with the controls. Tissues near cellular cementum and root resorption lacunae were consistently devoid of nerve fibres. After 21 days, PDL nerve and blood vessel density and distribution were nearly at control level. However, nerve fibres were regularly found inside root resorption areas. In conclusion, experimental tooth movement induces dynamic changes in density and distribution of periodontal and pulpal nerve fibres, indicating their involvement in both early stages of periodontal remodelling and later in the regenerative processes of the PDL, generally occurring in concerted action with modulation of blood vessels.