A Modified Tooth Extraction Approach for Improving Procedural Efficiency and Consistency in a Murine Mandibular Tooth Socket Healing Model

The tooth socket healing model (TSHM) is a widely used animal model for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying bone regeneration. Although the murine mandibular TSHM is valuable for studying mandibular-specific pathological processes, establishing this model remains technically challenging because of the anatomical and biomechanical characteristics of the mandibular molar region. This protocol describes a modified approach for mandibular first molar extraction in mice and compares its performance with the conventional technique to improve procedural efficiency and reproducibility. Under controlled experimental conditions, the modified approach significantly reduced the average extraction time from 29 to 10 min. In addition, the modified group exhibited fewer extraction-related complications, including root and alveolar bone fractures, indicating improved procedural consistency. Micro-computed tomography (μCT) analysis further demonstrated improved preservation of extraction socket architecture during early healing. These findings indicate that the modified extraction approach improves procedural efficiency and reproducibility while reducing the technical challenges associated with murine mandibular tooth extraction. This protocol may facilitate more consistent establishment of murine mandibular tooth socket healing models, particularly for researchers with limited microsurgical experience.