A perspective on the mechanical engineering of biomimetic periodontal ligament models for biomedical applications

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a vital component of the periodontal tissue in the oral cavity. Its intricate mechanical and bacterial environment contributes to the high global prevalence of periodontal disease, a leading cause of tooth loss. While numerous PDL scaffold models have been developed, most are limited to two-dimensional structures that fail to accurately represent the intricate three-dimensional (3D) extracellular environment of the PDL. Consequently, these models do not sufficiently mimic the physiological and mechanical characteristics of human PDL in both health and disease. Here, we review the integration of advanced biomaterials and biofabrication technologies, including 3D bioprinting and organ-on-chip (OOC) technologies, to address the requirements, challenges, and future directions for the mechanical engineering of biomimetic PDL models for biomedical applications. • Periodontal disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss, with the periodontal ligament crucial for repair. • Advanced biomaterials and biofabrication offer promising avenues for biomimetic periodontal ligament models. • The mechanical engineering of biomimetic periodontal ligament models plays a crucial role in advancing clinical translation.