Effect of an enamel matrix derivative (Emdogain) on the microhardness and chemical composition of human root dentin: an in vitro study

Abstract

The advantage of using an Enamel matrix derivative EMD Emdogain as an intracanal medication could be a manner to strength the tooth structure, improving the physical and chemical properties of dentin. We tested, in vitro, the effect of Emdogain on the surface microhardness and chemical composition of root dentin. Ten human teeth were used to produce dentin specimens originated from the canal walls (n = 30) that remained in contact to Emdogain gel for 90 days. Baseline and 90-days after Emdogain treatment measurements were performed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR/FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) and Knoop indenters. The use of EMD (Emdogain) for 90 days in contact with human root canal dentin specimens did not alter the microhardness and morphology of dentin. The elemental structure of dentin was altered because there was a reduction in carbonate content.

Figure 1

Schematic illustration of the experimental design.

Figure 2

(A) Representative imagens of dentinal surface FTIR spectra before EMD (Emdogain) treatment. (B) Representative images/spectra of FTIR spectra after EMD (Emdogain) treatment. Specimens` surface from the same sample analysed by SEM/EDS: (C) is showing the SEM image and the spectra (right side) before treatment with EMD (Emdogain) (baseline); and (D) is showing the SEM image and the spectra (right side) 90-days after treatment with EMD (Emdogain).