Efek Ekstrak Bubuk Kakao (Theobroma cacao L.) pada Model Tikus Fase Retensi Ortodonti terhadap Kadar RANKL

Abstract

Introduction: Malocclusion requires orthodontic treatment followed by a retention phase to prevent relapse. Incomplete alveolar bone remodeling mediated by RANKL during retention may compromise stability. Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) contains bioactive compounds that influence bone metabolism, but its effect on RANKL regulation during the retention phase remains unclear. Aim: To assess the effect of cocoa powder extract on RANKL levels in an orthodontic retention rat model. Methods: An experimental laboratory study using orthodontic rat models. The treatment group received systemic cocoa powder extract. Gingival crevicular fluid was collected on days 3, 7, and 14 post-retention, and RANKL levels were analyzed using ELISA. Result: The treatment group descriptively exhibited lower RANKL levels than the control group, but no statistically significant differences were observed between groups at any time point. Conclusion: Systemic administration of cocoa powder extract during the orthodontic retention phase showed a tendency to reduce RANKL levels, although the effect was not statistically significant.