Orthodontic tooth movement is achieved by the periodontal tissue remodeling in response to mechanical loading and is believed to be mediated by several host mediators. With the development of modern experimental techniques, the researchers have been able to investigate the biological characteristics of orthodontic tooth movement at the molecular and genetic level. The growth factor is one of the most important cytokines which play an important role in the periodontal tissue remodeling. Therefore, a thoroughly awareness of the extensional regulatory mechanism of growth factors is essential to understand the biological behaviour of orthodontic tooth movement, and to the application of growth factors in orthodontic clinic. This article reviews the research progress of the biological foundation and the periodontal tissue responses during orthodontic tooth movement and effects of growth factors on the periodontal tissue remodeling.
