Effect of Bifidobacterium Probiotic Supplementation on Interleukin‐6 Levels and Osteoclast Count in Wistar Rats During Orthodontic Tooth Movement

ABSTRACT Background Probiotics may offer benefits in mitigating bone loss and related conditions. Bone resorption is essential for bone remodelling, particularly during orthodontic tooth movement induced by mechanical forces. This study investigates the effects of Bifidobacterium probiotic supplementation on interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) levels and osteoclast counts. Methods and Materials This study involved 48 healthy male Wistar rats, randomly assigned to six groups: control groups at 3 days (C3), 7 days (C7) and 14 days (C14), and probiotic groups at 3 days (P3), 7 days (P7) and 14 days (P14). The probiotic group received a daily gavage of Bifidobacterium at a dose of 1.5 × 10 8 CFU/g. Orthodontic tooth movement was induced using a coil spring applying a force of 20 g. Osteoclast counts were assessed via light microscopy, while IL‐6 levels were measured using the ELISA method. Results Probiotic supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in IL‐6 levels and osteoclast counts compared to the control group. Peak IL‐6 levels and osteoclast counts in the control group were observed on Day 14, whereas the lowest levels were recorded in the probiotic group on the same day. Conclusion Despite certain limitations, this study suggests that Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis supplementation effectively reduces IL‐6 levels and osteoclast counts during orthodontic tooth movement over a 14‐day period when compared to controls.