Cementum is key to periodontal tissue regeneration: A review on apatite microstructures for creation of novel cementum‐based dental implants

Abstract

Summary The cementum is the outermost layer of hard tissue covering the dentin within the root portion of the teeth. It is the only hard tissue with a specialized structure and function that forms a part of both the teeth and periodontal tissue. As such, cementum is believed to be critical for periodontal tissue regeneration. In this review, we discuss the function and histological structure of the cementum to promote crystal engineering with a biochemical approach in cementum regenerative medicine. We review the microstructure of enamel and bone while discussing the mechanism underlying apatite crystal formation to infer the morphology of cementum apatite crystals and their complex structure with collagen fibers. Finally, the limitations of the current dental implant treatments in clinical practice are explored from the perspective of periodontal tissue regeneration. We anticipate the possibility of advancing periodontal tissue regenerative medicine via cementum regeneration using a combination of material science and biochemical methods.

Recent Advances in Functionalized Electrospun Membranes for Periodontal Regeneration

“…This network establishes a connection between the tooth and the alveolar bone through the calcified collagen fibers known as Sharpey’s fibrils. These fibers are crucial for detecting and responding to occlusal mechanical pressure during biting and chewing [ 36 ]. Cementum can be broadly classified into two primary parts: acellular and cellular cementum.…”