Animal Models in Periodontics

Gingival and periodontal diseases are a group of chronic inflammatory diseases involving the structures supporting and surrounding the teeth. These periodontal diseases are mainly caused by oral bacterial biofilm in the periodontium. As with any disease, it is important to do experimental research on suitable non-human subjects prior to clinical trials on humans. Hence, through the years, animal models have been used to great effect to evaluate the etiopathogenesis, clinical characteristics, and histological and immunologic aspects of periodontal disease; as well as to test the success of newer surgical techniques prior to its application in humans. This book provides a concise review of animal models, the crucial role they play in the advancement of scientific research, as well as their numerous applications, both clinically and otherwise, in the field of periodontics.