The zebrafish model in dental research: an alternative experimental approach for Türkiye

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is widely used in medical and biomedical research because of its rapid development, transparent embryos, genetic similarity to humans, and cost-effective maintenance. In recent years, it has also gained attention in dental research, particularly in craniofacial development, oral pathogen models, and toxicity assessment of dental biomaterials. Although its use in dental research in Türkiye remains limited, the zebrafish model may provide an ethical, economical, and translationally valuable alternative to conventional animal models.