Click chemistry-driven asymmetrically modified superhydrophobic/superhydrophilic gelatin sponge for improved dry socket prophylaxis.

Dry socket, a common painful complication after tooth extraction, is typically caused by improper blood clot formation or its premature dislodgement, often exacerbated by bacterial infections. Traditional gelatin sponges, widely used as clinical fillers, provide favorable biocompatibility and hemostatic support but suffer from suboptimal hemostatic efficiency, lack of antimicrobial properties, and insufficient anticoagulant factors, which increase the risk of dry socket. Addressing these limitations, a novel tannic acid cross-linked gelatin sponge has been developed using directional lyophilization. This sponge, further enhanced by salinization and thiol-ene click chemistry, supports the grafting of antimicrobial peptides and 1H,1H,2H,2H-Perfluorodecanethiol (PTDTES) onto its surfaces, creating a distinct asymmetric structure. The hydrophobic side effectively blocks external factors like saliva, while the hydrophilic side, enriched with cross-linked tannic acid, promotes rapid clot formation and stability. This configuration not only offers robust antibacterial properties against pathogens such as E. coli and S. aureus but also accelerates coagulation, optimizes clot protection, and reduces excessive blood absorption, minimizing the risks associated with clot dislodgement and prolonged bleeding. In clinical studies, this composite gelatin sponge successfully prevented the development of dry socket, facilitated effective wound healing, and demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, making it a promising advanced material for managing complications following dental extractions.