Faculty Of Dentistry Research Articles

Outcomes of transitioning from mandatory to elective research at a dental school in Southern California.

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a curricular change from mandatory to elective research on the student research outcomes at a Southern California Dental School over ten years. Additionally, the perception of dental students and faculty toward research in dental education was assessed. A survey was distributed to determine the perception towards research in dental education, motivation and barriers for pursuing research and the possibility participants would pursue research-even if the school did not mandate it. The survey was distributed to a total of 507 dental students and 121 full-time faculty. Both dental students (80.6%) and faculty (91.4%) agreed that learning about research is important in dental education. Both cohorts generally agreed that research experience enhances dental training, supports the scientific basis of dental treatment methods, and correlates with clinical ability. The majority of students (77.0%) disagreed with mandating research while faculty (77.6%) believed that it should be mandated. Lack of time was the single most stated barrier for participating in research. The overall trend during the transition from mandatory to elective research showed that initially there was a stark drop in students and faculty participation and projects being carried out. However, with deliberate planning, research outcomes steadily increased. We conclude that dental students and faculty have a positive perspective on the importance of research in dental education and actively engage in research and mentoring activities when provided with a supportive and encouraging environment. This participation occurs regardless of whether research is mandated or elective.

Dental faculty's perception in teaching digital impressions following calibration training.

Dental faculty's perception in teaching digital impressions following calibration training.

COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF VISUAL COLOR MATCHING FOR ARTIFICIAL AND NATURAL TEETH BY STUDENT OF DENTAL FACULTY AT KHARKIV NATIONAL MEDICAL UNIVERSITY

The purpose of this study was to conduct a comparative assessment of dental students’ ability to match the color of patients’ teeth with aesthetic restorations. Materials and Methods. The study was conducted from 2021 to 2024 with participation of 2nd- and 3rd-year students at the Faculty of Dentistry, Kharkiv National Medical University, Kharkiv, Ukraine. Results. Accurate determination and reproduction of natural tooth color is a challenging task in aesthetic dentistry, as color plays a crucial aesthetic role. This process depends heavily on the experience and perception of dentists and can be approached subjectively (visual analysis) or objectively (special devices). Although shade determination is a routine task for dentists, errors are still common. The study revealed that 2nd-year students struggled significantly with color matching, especially for natural teeth, with error rates of 66.6% for artificial teeth and 80.8% for natural teeth, indicating a need for more training. Students performed better using the VITA Classic shade guide, which is simplified, but matching the color of natural teeth requires additional practice. The results confirm that clinical training improves students’ color-matching skills. After training, 3rd-year students showed a marked decrease in error rates: 35.8% for artificial teeth and 53.3% for natural teeth. The Vita 3D Master scale proved more accurate due to its broader color-matching capabilities. Overall, the accuracy levels improved significantly, highlighting the effectiveness of the training program. Conclusion. The results of the study demonstrate that training significantly improves students' ability to accurately determine tooth color. The 3rd year students who underwent clinical training showed better results in matching the color of both artificial and natural teeth, reducing the number of errors by 35.8% and 53.3%, respectively. The Vita 3D Master scale proved to be more accurate due to a wider selection of colors and more evaluation parameters. The 81.5% increase in the overall score confirms the effectiveness of the training in improving the accuracy of tooth color determination in the educational process.

Spatial-Temporal Distribution of 12-Year Periodontal Disease Prevalence in a Large Population Using Geographical Information Systems: A Longitudinal Study.

Periodontal diseases, commonly linked to dental biofilm and affecting adults, were studied using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Kernel Analyses with epidemiological data. This paper presents a hybrid method for use in epidemiological studies by evaluating the spatiotemporal distribution of disease prevalence. This study analy ed 47,757 patients from the Department of Periodontology out of 662,351 visitors to University Faculty of Dentistry (2012 to July 2023). The central districts of Kayseri in Turkey were selected as the study areas. Periodontitis prevalence was assessed through radiographic evidence and clinical examination. Point-based location data, including gender, age, and disease type, matched household data, creating building-based spatial data. Kernel Density (KD) and Average Nearest Neighbor (ANN) analyses examined patient concentration and disease types in specific regions. Accordingly, standard deviation ellipses were prepared by year to assess the spatial changes in the regions where patients resided. The study found higher periodontitis prevalence in males, increasing with age, while gingivitis decreased. After 2017, periodontitis prevalence notably declined. Location-based data exhibited clustering in patient distribution. KD maps showed similar patient distributions over the years, with more applications from areas closer to the Faculty of Dentistry. The spatial distribution of the patients applying has remained consistent over the last 5 years. Through GIS, KD maps reveal the spatial-temporal distribution of periodontitis patients. This aids in identifying high-prevalence regions and guiding strategic healthcare facility placement. Implementing preventive programs in high-demand areas, particularly in family health centers (local health facilities), can reduce community-wide periodontal disease prevalence.

COVID-19 pandemic: mental health (distress as depression) in orthodontists

ABSTRACT Objectives For health professionals, pandemic conditions impacted all societal aspects, including economic, wellness, and mental health. This study analysed sociodemographic factors, post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD), and depression levels caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in orthodontists. Materials and Methods A sociodemographic questionnaire, the Impact of Event Scale (IES), and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were used. Following data collection, multiple statistical analyses were applied: scores were compared using the Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests, followed by Dunnett's multiple comparisons. The association between variables was verified using Chi-square or likelihood ratio tests. Multiple logistic regression models were estimated after bivariate logistic regression tests (p < 0.10). The final models using the Stepwise backward selection method were assessed for variables at 5%. Results Of the respondents, 69.3% were women, and their mental health questionnaire scores were significantly higher (p < 0.001). The IES avoidance and PHQ-9 scores were statistically different between the age groups (p = 0.040 and p < 0.001, respectively). Subjective distress was associated with years of practice, monthly income, fear of contracting COVID-19 during dental care, transmitting COVID-19 to patients, and thinking about the future (p < 0.05). Depression was significantly associated with orthodontic practice type, self-confidence in providing dental care, pandemic impact on dental practice, remote care, monthly income, changes in financial expenses, fear of contracting COVID-19 and thinking about the future (p < 0.05). Conclusion Over half of the orthodontists experienced moderate-to-severe mental distress, and the same number suffered from mild-to-severe depression during the pandemic. Registration: Ethics and Research Committee (CEP) of the Faculty of Dentistry of the University of São Paulo (FOUSP): CAAE: 34223720.1.0000.0075 Protocol: 4.191.353

Gender differences in knowledge and practice of eco-friendly dentistry among dental students and doctors: A study at Ajman University

This study investigates the awareness of environmentally friendly (green) dentistry practices among dental students and faculty at Ajman University in the United Arab Emirates. The primary objective is to assess their understanding and application of eco-friendly dental practices, including waste management, energy conservation, and sustainable material usage. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, an online survey was administered to 231 randomly selected participants. The results show that although awareness of green dentistry has increased, its practical implementation remains limited. Specialists displayed the highest levels of knowledge and practice, while general practitioners demonstrated the least. Male participants showed greater experience and expertise compared to females, and the age group of 30–39 exhibited the highest levels of knowledge and practice, although age was not found to significantly affect awareness or usage. The findings highlight the need for enhanced education and encouragement of green dentistry to protect the environment and promote sustainable dental practices.

Microstomia- A Review Of Published Case Reports On The Proposed Management Of Microstomia

Introdcution: microstomia, or the reduction of oral opening, can indeed present challenges for patients across various contexts, from eating and speech to prosthetic treatment. It's essential for clinicians to understand the underlying causes and tailor their approach accordingly. By synthesizing existing evidence, this review aims to provide insights into the effectiveness and feasibility of different prosthetic interventions, thereby guiding clinicians in their decision-making process for optimal patient care. Materials and methods: published case reports and case series reporting on prosthetic rehabilitation of microstomia patients were included in the present review. Only cases with a reduction in the size of the oral aperture were included, and cases with reduced mouth opening with a normal oral aperture (e.g., oral submucous fibrosis, temporal-mandibular joint ankylosis, etc.) Were excluded. Case reports: (case report1) a 93-year-old woman without teeth was referred from the local hospital to the department of oral rehabilitation at the faculty of dentistry, university of otago, dunedin, new zealand. The woman's surgeries on her lower lip resulted in a significant reduction in the vertical opening distance between her upper and lower lips, now at 30 mm. This condition, known as microstomia. (case report 2) a 62-year-old male patient, completely without teeth, presented to the prosthodontic department due to functional difficulties. Discussion: a planned and step-by-step approach is crucial when dealing with cases of microstomia. The outcome greatly depends on the complexity of the case and the utilization of recommended materials and equipment hence, diagnosis and treatment planning play pivotal roles in the management process. Conclusion: although the utilization of flexible denture materials holds promise in enhancing patient comfort and treatment outcomes, further research is warranted to evaluate their long-term success rates. Longitudinal studies can furnish valuable insights into the durability, stability, and overall performance of these materials over time, assisting clinicians in decision-making and optimizing patient care.

First person – Brittany Carr

ABSTRACT First Person is a series of interviews with the first authors of a selection of papers published in Journal of Cell Science, helping researchers promote themselves alongside their papers. Brittany Carr is first author on ‘ prominin-1-null Xenopus laevis develop subretinal drusenoid-like deposits, cone-rod dystrophy and RPE atrophy’, published in JCS. Brittany is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, where her lab investigates frog models of inherited and age-related blindness.

A case report of an oral hemangioma with unusual features.

A 26-year-old patient with swelling on the lingual surface of the mandible in the incisors area was referred to the Faculty of Dentistry at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. After conducting clinical, radiographic, and pathological examinations, the patient was diagnosed with capillary hemangioma. This study explores the clinical manifestation and unusual behavior of intraoral hemangioma. Hemangioma is a tumor that occurs due to the proliferation of endothelial cells in 4%-5% of infants and affects the head and neck region in almost 70% of cases. The tumor in the mouth can appear as a soft, smooth, or lobulated mass with or without a base and varying in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. This article reports a case of hemangioma with unusual clinical features in a 26-year-old male patient.

A study of CPITN score in Periodontics Clinic Patients, RSGM Airlangga University, 2022

Background: Approximately 90% of the global population suffers from periodontal disesase, characterizes by bleeding gums, pain, and bad breath. The impact of this disease is diverse, ranging from tooth loss, disruption of aesthetics and confidence, to influencing individual nutritional status. The disease can be caused by damage of the periodontal tissues. Therefore, the Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN) is highly essential for assessing the extend of issues in periodontal tissues, including evaluating oral and dental health problems in patients. This assessment can aid in the treatment and prevention of periodontal disease. Material and Methods: This research is a descriptive study. The population consists of all patients who visited the periodontology clinic at the Faculty of Dentistry, Airlangga University, in the year 2022. The sample was taken using a total sampling technique, involving secondary data obtained from the periodontal status cards of patients, specifically focusing on the examination data related to the condition of periodontal tissues based on the Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN). Conclusion: The CPITN scores vary between gender and age groups of the patients. Therefore, bivariate research is needed to analyze the relationship of these parameters with the CPITN scores of periodontology patients.

The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Fostering Job Engagement

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between emotional intelligence and job engagement among dental faculty members of Kerala, India, as well as to examine whether this relationship varied based on certain demographic variables and general particulars. Data was collected from 353 dental faculties (226 from Private colleges and 127 from Government colleges) using a validated questionnaire. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between emotional intelligence and job engagement, indicating that higher levels of emotional intelligence were associated with higher levels of job engagement. Furthermore, the relationship between emotional intelligence and job engagement was found to be moderated by the provision of the respondents for getting time bound cadre promotions. The study provides important insights into the factors that contribute to job engagement among dental faculties in Kerala, India, and highlights the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace. Further research is needed to explore these findings in more detail and to address the limitations of the study.

What is the level of knowledge of first year dentistry students about human papillomavirus? a cross-sectional study

Background: Epidemiological studies have shown increasing trends of HPV-associated oral cancers worldwide. HPV-related diseases are a new public health problem that negatively affects the field of dentistry. The aim of this study is to determine the knowledge levels of first-year dentistry students about HPV. Methods: The study population consisted of 130 students enrolled in the first year of the Faculty of Dentistry in the academic year of 2023 and 2024. The Human Papilloma Virus Knowledge Scale (HPV-KS) was used to determine students' HPV knowledge levels. In the analysis of the data, the t test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used. Results: 53.6% of the students were female and 96% were in the 18-21 age group. The HPV-KS score of the students was found to be 10.60±7.27 (0-33). 58.4% of the students stated that they had heard of HPV before, 57.6% had heard of the HPV test before, and 50.4% had heard of the HPV vaccine before. Furthermore, female students scored significantly higher than male students in the HPV vaccine knowledge questions sub-dimensions (p=0.037). Conclusions: Considering the knowledge levels of students in the first grade, it can guide the educational programs to be prepared. In order to protect public health, it is recommended to increase the knowledge of dentistry students about HPV and HPV-related diseases.

Construction of oral cancer microenvironment model using 3D culture technology and search for new therapeutic targets

There remains much to be discovered and understood about the subtypes of cancer associated-fibroblasts (CAFs) in oral cancer. At the Faculty of Dentistry, Niigata University in Japan, Dr Kenta Haga is investigating the tumour microenvironment and CAFs. To do this, he and his team are using 3D culture technology in their studies as 3D culture models are considered to be more useful and more faithful to the biological characteristics and drug resistance of cancer than 2D cultures. This is because cells are never in 2D in the human body; they are all placed in a 3D structural environment. In their latest study, the researchers utilised their experimental model to recreate the cancer microenvironment and evaluate the proliferation and invasion of cancer cells over time. They have incorporated CAFs into a collagen gel, seeded oral cancer cells and established the basic technology for a 3D culture model with a two-layered structure that has a tumour layer and an interstitial layer to mimic squamous cell carcinoma. The team has been able to investigate the interaction of CAFs with oral cancer cells by in vitro, in vivo and in human oral cancer specimens. In order to understand the complex tumour microenvironment they are seeking to analyse the effects of CAFs on the invasive and proliferative potential for cancer cells. If they can elucidate the intercellular network in the tumour microenvironment, this will lead to novel treatment strategies for cancer. Haga and the team have already demonstrated that the TGF-β/SOX9 pathway plays an important role in CAFs promoting epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) in oral cancer.

Prevalence of tinnitus in temporomandibular joints disorder patients

BackgroundDisorders affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), related structures, and the masticatory muscles are called temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The two most typical symptoms are mouth opening restriction and pain. Costen noted the connection between TMD and tinnitus in 1934. These conditions are brought about by the shared structures that connect the TMJ and the auditory apparatus (bones and muscles) through a shared innervation source and specific ligaments. Wright addresses Costen ideas, which suggest that otological symptoms of TMD could be caused by auriculotemporal nerve damage, Eustachian tube restriction, or other factors causing an incorrect intratympanic pressure adjustment.MethodsCross-sectional observation was regulated at Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University. The following are the inclusion criteria: patients with a TMD diagnosis and those older than 16 years old. The following conditions are excluded: neurological or oncological disorders, ear infection, and a history of face trauma.ResultsThe total number was 196 patients, 63.8% females and 36.2% males. A total of 76.5% had bilateral joint pain, and 21.9% had unilateral joint pain. While 70.4% had bilateral muscle pain, 18.9% had unilateral muscle pain. A total of 91.8% had mild tinnitus, while 8.2% had moderate tinnitus.ConclusionIn this study, 8.2% of patients complaining of tinnitus had severe tinnitus, while 91.8% had mild tinnitus.

Infodemic management in higher education: Mapping opportunities at the University of Belgrade

Abstract Background Effective infodemic management (IM) requires a multidisciplinary approach and the use of various skills originating from natural, social, and medical sciences. Personnel involved in IM activities have diverse backgrounds from medical doctors and data scientists to communication specialists and journalists. However, the IM framework is rarely introduced into the existing teaching programs, compromising the training of a competent workforce. Objectives Our goal was to identify opportunities for integrating the IM framework into the existing teaching programs at the University of Belgrade. A team of researchers reviewed the curricula of 31 faculty and identified the courses that already covered IM skills or had the potential to include them in their teaching programs. The research was conducted as part of the U.S. Federal Assistance Award within the University Partnership Program between Emory University and the University of Belgrade. Results After conducting independent reviews and reaching a consensus, over 40 different courses and/or teaching programs have been identified to include or could potentially integrate IM skills and competencies. These courses are found across all major academic clusters (natural sciences and mathematics, technology and engineering, medical sciences, social sciences, and humanities). Faculties of medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry lead with the number of courses and interested teaching staff, followed by social sciences (psychology, sociology, political science). Most of the identified courses are related to information, data science, and communications. Conclusions There is a promising opportunity to introduce IM skills into the current teaching programs at the University of Belgrade. Faculties from the medical sciences group have a solid potential to lead such a process. Collaborative efforts are needed to establish comprehensive teaching programs to ensure a competent public health workforce and certification. Key messages • University of Belgrade has the potential to introduce infodemic management skills into its existing teaching programs, respecting the multidisciplinary nature of this discipline. • Medical and social sciences faculties can lead the process of mainstreaming infodemic management in their curricula, ensuring a competent public health workforce and certification.

A 5-Year retrospective analysis of adverse events in dentistry at the Dental Hospital, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University

BackgroundPatient safety is a critical concern in dentistry. Adverse events (AEs) can harm patients, increase costs, and decrease satisfaction. Understanding AE types and frequencies is crucial for effective risk management and quality improvement. This study analyzes incident reports to identify preliminary incident patterns as a starting point for developing risk management strategies. However, under-reporting limits the ability to identify true incident patterns, highlighting the need for improved reporting systems and encouragement of incident reporting. Further research is underway to develop such a system and promote reporting to ensure sufficient data quality for effective risk management.MethodsA retrospective analysis of 1,618 incident reports from December 2018 to August 2023 was conducted. A validated classification system, developed from a 5-year retrospective analysis and approved by 14 experts, categorized patient safety incidents, aligning with Thailand’s Hospital Accreditation standards. Descriptive statistics summarized AE frequency and distribution.ResultsOf the reports, 752 were patient safety, 503 personnel safety, and 363 organizational safety incidents. Top patient safety incidents included medical record errors (176), accidental damage (66), post-operative complications (65), medical emergencies (64), and communication errors (53). Personnel safety incidents involved inappropriate working conditions (135) and work-related injuries with contact transmission risk (117). Organizational safety incidents mainly concerned policy and operational processes (131).ConclusionsThis study reveals the preliminary patterns of adverse events (AEs) in dental settings and underscores the limitations due to under-reporting, which affect the ability to fully understand true incident patterns. To effectively manage risks, there is a critical need for improving the existing incident reporting system and encouraging a culture of comprehensive reporting among dental professionals. Future efforts should focus on enhancing reporting systems to ensure high-quality data, enabling better identification of incident trends and supporting targeted risk management strategies to improve patient safety in dentistry.

Surveying dentistry students' perspectives on anatomy education: A questionnaire-based study

Background/Aim: Anatomy plays a crucial role in medical and dental education, equipping students with vital knowledge for comprehending the human body and its clinical implications. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant transition to online learning, raising questions about the efficacy of virtual anatomy education. Additionally, recent natural disasters like earthquakes have disrupted traditional learning settings, highlighting the need for alternative methods such as online instruction. This study sought to investigate dentistry students' opinions on anatomy education, specifically comparing the perspectives of students affected by earthquakes with those who were not, to determine any disparities in their attitudes towards online anatomy courses. Methods: A voluntary survey was conducted on 135 first-year students at Çukurova University Faculty of Dentistry during the 2023-2024 academic year. A 5-point Likert-type survey with 21 questions was used for data collection. Results were presented as percentages and analyzed. The Likert scale ranged from 1 = Strongly Disagree to 5 = Strongly Agree. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0, including Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk Tests for normal distribution assessment and the Mann-Whitney U-test for non-normally distributed scores comparison (P-value &lt;0.05). Results: Students directly affected by earthquakes showed a significant difference in their perception of online education compared to unaffected students, particularly in the question "Theoretical anatomy course can be followed online" (P=0.036). Conclusion: This study provides insights for enhancing education planning and development based on student feedback.

A modified protocol merging two published techniques for computer guided zygomatic implants surgery: a technical note

ObjectivesZygomatic implant surgery can be difficult due to the limited intraoperative visibility of the surgical field and the complex anatomy of the zygomatic bone, which could lead to serious complications. This study aims to assess the accuracy of zygomatic implants placement using computer-guided surgical templates.Materials and methodsA total of 13 zygomatic implants were placed in four participants. Double-sleeve drill guides were used with the help of computer-guided surgical templates designed with a lateral window. The accuracy was evaluated by measuring the linear deviations regarding the implants’ platforms and apices’ positions in addition to the angular deviations. Moreover, deviations of both implants from three fixed planes of space were measured.ResultsThe mean linear deviation at platforms was 2.44 mm ± 1.57 and at the apices 2.32 mm ± 1 while the mean angular deviation was 3.6˚ ± 1.92. Differences at the entry points were 0.43 ± 1.79 mm, 0.39 ± 1.12 mm, and − 0.54 ± 2.00 mm from the mid-sagittal, horizontal, and coronal planes respectively. Differences at the exit points were − 0.75 ± 1.25 mm, -0.06 ± 1.09 mm, and 0.63 ± 1.24 mm from the same planes respectively. Within all planes, there was no statistically significant difference.ConclusionGiven the limitations of this study, the use of the computer-guided surgical templates augmented by the double sleeve drill guides allowed favorable control over the tip of the long surgical drill away from vital structures during the zygomatic implant osteotomy. It also allowed control over alveolar crest osteotomy and its placement in a favorable prosthetic position. Overall, this protocol should be considered for further research and improvement to allow more predictable surgical outcomes while preventing the occurrence of complications. Before conducting this study, the protocol was reviewed and approved by the Research Ethical Committee of Faculty of Dentistry, Ain Shams University in meeting no. (105), on 15th of July 2020 with the application no.: (FDASU-RecD072029).

Severe Deep Fascial Spaces Infections with Pregnancy: A Retrospective Study.

Background: Odontogenic infections are common and self-limiting in most cases, but, they can lead to severe consequences and considerable morbidity and can even be fetal in spite of modern medical therapy. Patients and Methods: Retrospective study included data of pregnant patients with deep fascial space infections, done in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Faculty of Dentistry. Alexandria University, and Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Department, King Fahd Specialist Hospital, Burayda, Qassim, Saudi Arabia, from June2017 to Dec2022. Data were analyzed to study incidence, etiology, pattern, treatment modalities, outcomes, complications, and effects on pregnancy. Results: Thirty-eight pregnant patients, with a mean age of 30.8 ± 6.21 years, were included. The mean age of pregnancy was 24.5 ± 4.3 weeks. Diabetes mellitus was identified in seven cases (18.42%) and combined with hypertension in one case (2.63%) and with valvular heart disease in another one. The commonest affected single space was the submandibular space that occurred in six cases (15.8%). Canine space was the second single commonly involved one which occurred in five patients (13.2%). Complications occurred in 11 patients. Unesthetic scar occurred in three patients (7.9%). Trismus was observed in two patients (5.3%). Recurrent abscess was found in one case. Complications affecting the developing fetus and considered the most serious occurred in four patients: two cases of preterm labor and two cases of abortion. Conclusion: These infections may lead to serious outcomes and may have irreversible effects on the pregnancy and the developing fetus. Urgent intervention with multidisciplinary team to provide adequate care.

Bovine pulp extracellular matrix hydrogel for regenerative endodontic applications: in vitro characterization and in vivo analysis in a necrotic tooth model

BackgroundRegenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) offer the promise of restoring vitality and function to a previously necrotic and infected tooth. However, the nature of regenerated tissues following REPs remains unpredictable and uncontrollable. Decellularized extracellular matrix scaffolds have gained recent attention as scaffolds for regenerative endodontics.ObjectivesPreparation and characterization of a bovine dental pulp-derived extracellular matrix (P-ECM) hydrogel for regenerative endodontic applications. Biocompatibility and regenerative capacity of the prepared scaffold were evaluated in vivo in a canine animal model.MethodsFifteen freshly extracted bovine molar teeth were used to prepare P-ECM hydrogels following approval of the institutional review board of the faculty of dentistry, Alexandria University. Decellularization and lyophilization of the extracted pulp tissues, DNA quantification and histological examination of decellularized P-ECM were done. P-ECM hydrogel was prepared by digestion of decellularized pulps. Prepared scaffolds were evaluated for protein content and release as well as release of VEGF, bFGF, TGF-β1 and BMP2 using ELISA. Rabbit dental pulp stem cells’ (rDPSCs) viability in response to P-ECM hydrogels was performed. Finally, proof-of-concept of the regenerative capacity of P-ECM scaffolds was assessed in an infected mature canine tooth model following REPs versus blood clot (BC), injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) or hyaluronic acid (HA). Statistical analysis was done using independent t test, the Friedman test and chi-square tests (p value ≤ 0.05).ResultsDNA was found to be below the cut-off point (50 ng/mg tissue). Histological evaluation revealed absence of nuclei, retention of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and collagen content, respectively. P-ECM hydrogel had a total protein content of (493.12 µg/µl) and protein release was detected up to 14 days. P-ECM hydrogel also retained VEGF, bFGF, TGF-β1 and BMP2. P-ECM hydrogel maintained the viability of rDPSCs as compared to cells cultured under control conditions. P-ECM hydrogel triggered more organized tissues compared to BC, i-PRF and HA when used in REPs for necrotic mature teeth in dogs. Periapical inflammation was significantly less in HA and P-ECM groups compared to blood-derived scaffolds.ConclusionBovine dental pulp-derived extracellular matrix (P-ECM) hydrogel scaffold retained its bioactive properties and demonstrated a promising potential in regenerative endodontic procedures compared to conventional blood-derived scaffolds.