Gingival inflammation induction in pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats: A pilot study

Abstract

Pregnancy gingivitis is an inflammation of the gingiva caused by dental plaque and exacerbated by hormonal changes. Gingival inflammation is often induced in laboratory animal models, such as SpragueDawley rats used for experimental models. This investigation was to establish inducing gingival inflammation in pregnant rats. The purpose of this study was to establish a reproducible method for inducing gingival inflammation in both incisive mandibles of pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats using ligation and dietary manipulation. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were used as experimental subjects. As ligation, 4-0 nonresorbable silk thread was utilized and affixed using a “8”-shaped knot technique. The ligatures were inserted between the mandible’s central incisors. The operation was carried out under anaesthesia. Once the rat’s ligature was removed after 5th,7th,10th and 14th days. The clinical appearance and radiographic examination were evaluated. Gingival inflammation induction by ligation and dietary intake modification caused inflammation of gingival tissue, was seen at 5th day. Clinical examination showed getting worst at 14th day. In our study, gingival inflammation on pregnant rat was achieved five days after ligation and dietary intake modification.