A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Associated Effects of Static Magnetic Fields on Orthodontic Tooth Movement

Background: The literature on the use of static magnetic field (SMF), particularly in orthodontics, has certain gaps. Furthermore, the mechanism by which SMF affects orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is still unclear and quite contradictory. Thus, the goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess SMF’s effect on OTM. This study also sought to analyse the variability of the studies included in the analysis and the size of the impact of SMF on OTM. Methods: Using the PRISMA guidelines, reviewers implemented a search strategy across several online databases, filtering out the initial articles that were obtained by applying relevant inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The overall effect size for the odds ratio was found to be 0.58, with a 95% confidence interval ranging from 0.40 to 0.86. This indicates that exposure to static magnetic fields is associated with a significantly reduced likelihood of orthodontic tooth movement in the animal studies analysed. Similarly, the overall effect size for the risk ratio was calculated to be 0.71, with a 95% confidence interval ranging from 0.55 to 0.91. The risk ratio also suggests a significant impact of SMF on OTM, with animals exposed to magnetic fields being at a lower risk of experiencing substantial tooth movement compared to those not exposed. However, it is important to note that moderate heterogeneity was observed among the included studies. Conclusion: The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis indicate that there may be a causal relationship between OTM and SMF. However, the small number of studies included in this review and their poor methodological quality limit the available data, highlighting the need for further well-designed research to support these conclusions.