Histometric study of resorption on replanted teeth with enamel matrix-derived protein.

BACKGROUND Enamel matrix-derived proteins (Emdogain) stimulate the proliferation of periodontal ligament cells, contributing to their regeneration. AIM This study was to perform histometric assessment of root surface resorption in replanted teeth with the use of Emdogain®. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus), weighing 180 to 200 gm, were anesthetized, subjected to extraction of the upper right incisor tooth, which was then replanted into the alveoli with the following treatment: (a) control group--tooth with root canal filled with calcium hydroxide paste and (b) treated group--tooth with root canal filled with enamel matrix-derived protein. The animals were sacrificed 25 days after tooth replantation. The maxilla was processed to obtain thin sections (6 µ) and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The resorption volume percentage of each dental element was calculated from the cementoenamel junction to the apex. RESULTS Quantification of resorption revealed that Emdogaintreated teeth showed a lower percentage of resorption (31.58%) compared to controls (80.48%) (statistically significant values--t-test p-value=0.0431). CONCLUSION It was concluded that Emdogain used as root canal filling has properties capable of showing a lower percentage of resorption in replanted teeth.