Microscopic examination of the effect of bromelain on the healing of tooth extraction sockets in an animal model

Background and Aims: Bromelain is a substance derived from pineapple and has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of bromelain on the healing of tooth extraction sockets in an animal model. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was performed on 24 male rats. After anesthesia, the first maxillary molar tooth was extracted with minimal damage using a hemostat. The rats were randomly divided into two groups, namely control and bromelain. In the bromelain group, the rats were orally administered by gavage with a 500 mg dose of bromelain that was dissolved in water twice a day for 2 days, while the control group received no medications. On the 3rd and 10th days after the surgery, 6 rats were killed per group each day. Afterward, the maxillae of rats were removed and slides were prepared from their dental sockets. The slides were examined by light microscope for histopathological variables (mean of macrophages, fibroblasts, lymphocytes, neutrophils; granulation tissue extent and angiogenesis and bone cells). Results: The results showed that the angiogenesis and granulation tissue extent increased significantly in the bromelain group, compared to the control group, on the 3rd day (P<0.05). Also, bromelain administration significantly increase the the number of fibroblasts (P<0.01), granulation tissue extent (P<0.05) and angiogenesis (P<0.05) in 3rd day of the experiment in comparison with the 10th day. Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that bromelain accelerates the process of wound healing after tooth extraction.