Ultrastructure of new attachment formation in monkey buccal dehiscence defects after application of enamel matrix derivative (EMD)

Abstract

We studied the formation of new attachment at the ultrastructural level following application of enamel matrix derivative (EMD). Buccal dehiscence defects were surgically created on both sides of the maxilla in the first and second premolars of six monkeys. EMD was applied on the denuded root surface of the left side, but not on the right and the monkeys were sacrificed at 2, 4 and 8 weeks. The biopsies, including teeth, gingiva and bone, were comparatively examined with light and electron microscopes. During the early stages of healing, numerous active cells were accumulated adjacent to the dentin surface treated with EMD, and subsequently a large number of collagen fibrils formed between the dentin surface treated with EMD and the neighboring cells. This suggests that EMD has the potential to promote new attachment formation. Furthermore, intermingling of newly formed collagen fibrils with those from the dentinal matrix was frequently observed in the experimental group, resulting in a more intimate union of both tissues. Shika Igaku (J Osaka Odontol Soc) 2002 Mar; 65(1): 71-90.