Development and initial testing of an in vitro model simulating class II furcation defects

OBJECTIVE: To compare surface topography of porcine and human root dentin and to develop a new in vitro model for class II furcation defects. The hypothesis for this study was that porcine mandible blocks can function as a model for class II furcation defects. BACKGROUND: Treatment of mandibular class II furcation defects is unpredictable. There is a need for in vitro models to investigate new treatment methods. METHODS: A model to investigate the surface topography of porcine and human root dentin was developed and the two tissues compared by SEM imaging and profilometer. A novel method for studying class II furcation defects was then tested. Blocks of porcine mandibles with molar 3 were prepared. Buccal class II furcation defects were created. The furcation area was isolated and bioluminescent Staphylococcus epidermidis Xen43 was used to form a biofilm in the furcation area to test the functionality of the novel furcation model. RESULTS: Micromechanical damage caused by debridement on porcine and human root dentin showed similar pattern. No significant difference in the surface morphological parameters was observed between the corresponding porcine and human samples. The model allowed for assessment of the root surface inside the furcation area. While the number of viable bacteria in the furcation following debridement could be quantified, no significant difference between the treatment groups was detected, likely due to bacterial colonization within the periodontal ligament space. CONCLUSION: Porcine and human root dentin show similar surface topography following surface debridement. Porcine mandible blocks can function as a model for class II furcation defects. However, further development and refinement of the novel in vitro model is warranted.