Background: Using orthodontic appliances to correct malocclusion causes pressure on the periodontal ligament, which triggers an inflammatory response. The process of inflammation is necessary for tooth movement. However, excessive inflammation causes other problems, such as bone destruction and root resorption, causing a disruption in the equilibrium between bone resorption and bone formation. Therefore, a natural anti-inflammatory is needed. Forastero cacao bean extract gel with flavonoid content can inhibit the NF-κB pathway by preventing precursor cells from becoming osteoclasts, which should reduce the quantity of nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFATc1) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) expressions in osteoclasts. Purpose: This study aimed to determine how much NFATc1 and TRAP expressions would decrease in orthodontic tooth movement after applying Forastero cacao bean extract gel on rat models. Methods: Non-fermented Forastero cacao beans were made into an 8% gel form. A total of 30 rats were assigned to a control group (C). One group received only orthodontic force for 7 days (X7) and 14 days (X14), while the treatment group received orthodontic force in combination with 8% (80 mg/mL) Forastero cacao bean extract gel applied over treatment periods of 7 days (Z7) and 14 days (Z14). Results: The NFATc1 and TRAP expressions significantly decreased in the Z7 and Z14 groups compared with the X7 and X14 groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Forastero cocoa bean extract gel can reduce the expressions of NFATc1 and TRAP in osteoclasts, which provides further evidence that this ingredient is effective at reducing excessive alveolar bone resorption to maintain the balance of the bone remodeling process.
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