2014 Volume 57 Issue 2 Pages 121-129
Purpose: Enamel matrix derivative (EMD) has been applied clinically as well as for periodontal regeneration therapy and root coverage therapy. However, there have been few reports on new attachment formation after root coverage therapy with EMD. This study examined the formation of new attachment at the ultrastructural level following application of EMD.
Methods: Buccal dehiscense defects were surgically created on both sides of the maxilla in the first and second premolars of two monkeys. EMD was applied on the denuded root surface of the left side but not on the right, and the monkeys were sacrificed at 8 weeks. The biopsies, including teeth, gingiva and bone, were comparatively examined with light and transmission electron microscopes.
Results: Numerous active cells had accumulated adjacent to the dentin surface treated with EMD, and a large amount of collagen fibrils had formed between the dentin surface treated with EMD and neighboring cells. Artifacts were observed along the dense granular layer (dgl) between the root surface and new cementum in the control group, but were not seen in the experimental group.
Conclusion: It is suggested that EMD has the potential to promote new attachment formation, and so could be effective for root coverage therapy.
