ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: Dentin is composed of many minerals and growth factors. Based on this composition, we studied its effect as a possible regenerative material for alveolar healing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted using four 2.5-year-old mongrel dogs (male; weight, 25 to 30 kg). The third mandibular premolars were carefully mobilized with a dental elevator and then removed using forceps. The crown portions of the extracted teeth were removed with cutters, and the root portions of the remaining teeth were collectively trimmed as closely as possible to 350 to 500 microm. Dentin and cementum (DC) chips harvested from the extracted teeth were soaked in blood and packed into the fresh sockets (autograft). Biopsies were performed at the ends of day 14 and day 56 following implantation. Data were expressed as mean+/-standard deviation and compared with t-test results. RESULTS: The ratio of SA(bone) to total area of each probe was determined and was 170+/-16 microm2 for the control group and 71+/-14 microm2 for the DC group, a significant difference (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: DC particulate grafts offered no improvement in bone regeneration in alveolar extraction sockets.