μCT analysis
ALVEOLAR BONE LOSS, CREST, BONE LOSS, ALVEOLAR BONE LOSS
Mice maxillae and mandibles were collected, fixed in PFA 4% overnight at 4 °C, and scanned using a Bruker Skyscan1272 μCT scanner. Microview (Parallax Innovations) software programme was used for visualization and analysis. Three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions were used to verify alveolar bone loss and acquire images. Alveolar bone loss was verified using the line segment tool from the cementum-enamel junction to alveolar bone crest (CEJ-ABC) in 6 points around all 12 molars, replicating clinical 6-point pocket chart (Mesial buccal; Buccal; Distal buccal; Mesial lingual/palatal; Lingual/Palatal; Distal lingual/palatal). The reported outcomes of the vertical bone loss represent the average of all sites measured in each mouse.