Early effects of orthodontic forces on osteoblast differentiation in a novel mouse organ culture model.

Objective: To develop a mouse orthodontic organ culture model and examine early-induced changes in osteoblast differentiation markers within the periodontal ligament (PDL) and alveolar bone.

Methods: Mandibles from 4- to 12-week-old transgenic mice were dissected and hemisected. A conventional superelastic orthodontic spring (25 grams) was bonded to the incisor and first molar on one side of the mandible; the other side served as a control.