The effect of indomethacin on the matrix metalloproteinases in canine permanent tooth eruption

Kang, Yoon Goo; Nam, Jong Hyun; Lee, Ki Soo

Abstract

Tooth eruption requires remodeling of surrounding tissues. This study was aimed to investigate the effect of indomethacin on the dental follicle and paradental tissues during tooth eruption by observing the distribution and expression of MMP by the immunohistochemical method. Ten mongrel dogs of ten to twelve weeks old were divided into 5 groups; four experimental groups administered indomethacin 2 mg/Kg/day and 8 mg/Kg/day orally 2 times a day for 14 days and 7 days respectively, and the control group was administered a placebo. Permanent teeth before eruption and their surrounding tissues were selected and excised. H and E staining and immunohistochemical stainings of MMP-3 and -9 were performed and examined under the light microscope. Osteoclasts, osteoblasts, periodontal ligament cells, ameloblasts and odontoblasts of the control group all expressed MMP-3 and -9. In the experimental group, osteoclasts, osteoblasts and periodontal ligament cells showed reduced expression of MMP-3 and -9. Magnitude of MMP reduction in the experimental group showed a time and dose of indomethacin administration dependent manner. These results show that indomethacin inhibited MMP-3 and -9 expression in the dental follicle and surrounding tissues and suggest that when indomethacin is administered for long periods, tooth eruption could be delayed.