Abstract

Objective: to evaluate the effect of fig on relapse during retention phase after orthodontic treatment in animals.

Materials and methods: Twenty rabbits were divided into two groups, Group 1 (control group): normal diet. Group 2: Fig added to the normal diet. Each rabbit received orthodontic appliance to apply force on the lower incisors in order to create a 3–4 mm space. Following space opening, the device served as passive retainer for six weeks, during which the animals got fig with regular diet. The appliance was removed after six weeks, and an impression was taken. The teeth then allowed to relapse for four weeks, then another impression was taken for postrelapse measurement. The space between incisors was measured. Animals were sacrificed and blocks were taken and prepared for histological study.

Results: Relapse was significantly lower in Fig group than in the control group.

Conclusion: Fig increases osteoblastic activity while decreases osteoclastic activity, both of which are beneficial consequences on bone health, which decreases the amount of post orthodontic relapse