Hydroxyapatite (HAp) derived from hen eggshells is rising as a “promising biomaterial in dentistry,” in line with a current overview revealed in Proof-Based mostly Dentistry.
The overview, which analyzed 17 research on eggshell-derived hydroxyapatite (E-HAp), discovered the fabric affords “a variety of functions” in tissue engineering and regenerative dentistry. The authors carried out a complete literature search within the PubMed and Scopus databases, in addition to a gray literature search.
Most research included within the overview had been in vitro investigations, specializing in makes use of corresponding to sealing dentinal tubules and remineralizing early enamel caries lesions. E-HAp was additionally studied for tissue engineering functions, together with alveolar ridge preservation utilizing bone grafts and periodontal regeneration. Different potential functions included regenerative endodontics and use as a pulp capping agent.
You can even learn: A case report on a right away anterior implant with quick provisionalization utilizing the extracted pure tooth
Rising curiosity in tissue engineering
The overview was prompted by rising curiosity in E-HAp for regenerative medication and tissue engineering, the authors famous.
Whereas the usage of hydroxyapatite — a naturally occurring calcium phosphate that’s the main inorganic part of bones and tooth — in human implants will not be new, researchers proceed to discover new sources for the fabric. Along with hen eggshells, hydroxyapatite has been synthesized from bovine, pig, and fish bones; seashells; mussel shells; and sure crops. One 2018 examine even examined hen beaks, a waste materials that may contribute to environmental considerations, as a possible supply.
Bioengineering can be drawing inspiration from animals in broader regenerative dental analysis. In 2024, a crew at Tufts College in Massachusetts reported efficiently bioengineering human-like tooth in pigs, representing a major advance in dental regenerative medication.
