How a 3D Model is Transforming Oral Disease Research Researchers from the University of Plymouth in England have developed a cutting-edge 3D model of the oral mucosa, offering new avenues for studying the mouth's response to various infections. Here's a summary of their findings The model, published in the Journal of Tissue Engineering, is made of cell types that are frequently present in the human body and is built using a collagen hydrogel. After a thorough testing protocol that included exposure to infections such as Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, researchers noticed responses that closely matched those of actual patients. This discovery provides insights into the dynamics of oral infections by enabling the investigation of the long-term wear effects of dentures on the oral mucosa. The model's adaptability extends beyond dental health to possible uses in disorders of the digestive system, such as Crohn’s disease. The study's chief researcher, Dr Vehid Salih, highlights the model's importance in dentistry research, emphasising its potential for researching diseases including periodontal disease and oral cancer invasion as well as testing oral healthcare items. Furthermore, the model could aid in understanding the immune response to infection by incorporating various immune cell types. This remarkable laboratory model represents a significant advancement in dental research. With its ability to accurately replicate oral tissue responses, it opens new opportunities for investigating and addressing a wide range of oral health challenges.