| The purpose of this study was to explore novel strategies to engineer a vital support structure within a root canal space by induced blood clot, exposure of dentin matrix and a cross-linked collagen scaffold. Radiographically, there was significant difference in periradicular healing and root wall thickening for scaffold groups. Two mineralized tissues were formed. A dentin associated mineralized tissue (DAMT) and bony islands (BI). Histomorphometric analysis showed more mineralized tissue formation in the scaffold groups. Exposure of the dentin matrix appeared to increase the adherence of DAMT to dentin. Histochemical and immunohistochemical characterization show DAMT is distinct from dentin or bone. Although DAMT resembled cementum, it showed a more immature and woven collagen matrix. BI resembled a bone matrix. The use of cross-linked collagen scaffold and exposure of dentin matrix combined with blood clot may provide an efficient approach for the treatment of immature teeth with apical periodontitis. |
