Ultrasound Enhances Dentoalveolar Remodeling in an Ex Vivo Orthodontic, Ovariectomy-Induced Osteoporotic Model

Abstract The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on dentoalveolar structures during application of force to a cultured mandible slice taken from an ovariectomized rat model of osteoporosis. Rats were divided based on whether they had ovariectomy and/or LIPUS application into four groups: control osteoporosis group, control normal group, ultrasound-treated osteoporosis group and ultrasound-treated normal group. The mandibles were dissected, sliced and cultured before application of a 0.5-N force. Tissue specimens from five rats per group received LIPUS; the remaining rats served as untreated controls. Tissue sections were evaluated histologically and histomorphometrically. Osteoporosis significantly affected the alveolar bone without any effect on the dentin–pulp complex. LIPUS enhanced osteoporotic alveolar bone remodeling and increased cementum and predentin thickness. Furthermore, LIPUS application significantly increased odontoblast and periodontal ligament cell counts ( p