Demineralization of Camel Dentin for Dental Tissue Engineering.

BACKGROUND

Demineralisation of dentin effectively removes the crystalline hydroxyapatite phase while preserving the collagen matrix and associated bioactive proteins. This process results in an osteoinductive scaffold with favourable biological properties, making demineralised dentin a promising naturally derived biomaterial for dentoalveolar bone and orthopaedic bone tissue regeneration.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the structural and elemental characteristics of camel dentin matrix after demineralisation using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and citric acid (CA) at various concentrations at 24 hours, with the goal of assessing its suitability as a biomaterial for bone grafting.

METHODS

Camel dentin granules were extracted after removal of enamel and cementum and treated with EDTA and citric acid for 24 hours. Post-treatment, samples were analysed using scanning electron microscopy to assess morphological changes, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy for elemental composition, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy for molecular characterisation. The degree of demineralisation was compared across groups.

RESULTS

Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed increased porosity and surface roughness following acid treatment, indicating demineralisation. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in calcium and phosphorus levels, confirming mineral loss. Fourier-transform infrared spectra confirmed efficient demineralisation, evidenced by reduced phosphate and carbonate bands and enhanced Amide I to III peaks, indicating increased exposure of the collagen framework. Raman spectra showed diminished intensity of phosphate and carbonate peaks in treated samples, further supporting successful demineralisation. EDTA treatment for 24 hours yielded the most pronounced structural and chemical alterations.

CONCLUSION

Demineralisation of camel dentin using EDTA and citric acid effectively alters its morphology and elemental composition. The optimised demineralisation protocol provides a promising approach for developing future demineralised dentin-derived graft materials from animal sources with potential osteoinductive properties.