Interproximal periodontal defect model in dogs: a pilot study.

Oral Diseases (2010) 17, 26–32 Objective:  This study aimed to evaluate the validity of a surgically created interproximal periodontal defect in dogs. Materials and methods:  Surgery was performed in the interproximal area between the maxillary second and third premolars in two beagle dogs. Following an incision and reflection of the gingival flap, a 3-mm wide and 5-mm high defect was prepared surgically at the interproximal area. A thorough root planing was performed and the flap was coronally positioned and sutured. The contra-lateral area was served as the control with no surgical intervention. After 8 weeks of healing, the animals were killed and the defect was analysed histometrically and radiographically. Results:  The interproximal periodontal defect resembled a naturally occurring defect and mimicked a clinical situation. After healing, the defect showed limited bone (0.89 ± 0.02 mm) and cementum regeneration (1.50 ± 0.48 mm). Conclusions:  Within the limitations of this pilot study, the interproximal periodontal defect showed limited bone and cementum regeneration. Thus, it can be considered as a standardized, reproducible defect model for testing new biomaterials.