In vitro evaluation of extracts of mineralized tissues for their application in attachment of fibrous tissue.

A primary objective in the treatment of periodontal diseases is attachment of fibrous tissue to root surfaces. An in vitro method was used to evaluate agents for their potential in enhancing this attachment process. Guanidine EDTA protein extracts of alveolar bone, cementum, and dentin in culture media were added to petri dishes and incubated at 37 degrees C for 1 hour. Human gingival fibroblasts were added to the dishes and incubated for an additional 90 minutes. Following incubation, cells attaching to the dish were quantified electronically, using a Coulter Counter. Extracts of alveolar bone and cementum enhanced cell attachment while dentin extract had no effect. These results indicate that both cementum and bone contain attachment proteins which could prove beneficial for attachment of fibrous tissue to root surfaces.