RESUMEN
AIM: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of simvastatin, a potent antiinflammatory drug, on the progression of alveolar bone loss in an experimental model of periodontitis in rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cotton ligature was used around the lower right first molar in a submarginal position in order to induce experimental periodontitis. Sixty rats were divided into 12 groups consisting of three control groups, three simvastatin groups, three ligature groups, and three ligature plus simvastatin groups. The distance between the cemento-enamel junction and the alveolar crest was determined at the mesial root surfaces of the lower right first molars by radiographic as well as profilometric analyses. RESULTS: In rats of the experimental periodontitis group (ligature), alveolar bone loss was higher compared to the control groups. However, simvastatin was associated with decreased alveolar bone loss in all treatment groups with experimental periodontitis (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Simvastatin treatment seems to be a beneficial and supporting therapeutic that favors protection against alveolar bone loss in a model of experimental periodontitis in rats.