Expression of Secretory Proteins in Saliva after Orthodontic Tooth Movement

Objective: this study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between the orthodontic tooth movement and expression of secretory proteins in saliva. Material and Method: Fifty patients including 22 males and 28 females participating in this study. Whole unstimulated saliva collected before and after orthodontic tooth movement. Orthodontic tooth movement performed by placement of orthodontic elastic separators mesially and distally to permanent first molar for 24 hours. Salivary proteins concentration was evaluated using Biuret and Lowry methods. Molecular weight of salivary proteins measured by SDS gel electrophoresis. Ten salivary samples were chosen to determine the molecular weight of each protein in saliva before and after orthodontic tooth movement. Results: statistical analysis showed non significant differences of total protein concentration in saliva before and after orthodontic tooth movement. Significant differences were found in the total protein concentration in males before and after orthodontic tooth movement, and non significant in females. Gel electrophoresis demonstrates decrease in the number of the bands of each protein before and after orthodontic tooth movement in both male and female. Proteins profile showing dramatic changes in banding patterns after orthodontic tooth movement. Salivary proteins showed qualitative and quantitative differences in molecular weight after tooth movement. Conclusion: application of mechanical force in oral cavity by placement of orthodontic elastic separators result in direct effect on expression of total salivary protein concentration and molecular weight.