Extracted human teeth and their utility in dental research. Recommendations on proper preservation: A literature review

Abstract

Laboratory research in dentistry and dental education use extracted human teeth as a model for simulation for ex vivo procedures. Human-borne tissues are the first choice of material for bond strength assessment. To obtain comparable results in dental material tests and to ensure microbiological safety, specimens must be stored under specific, uniform conditions. The aim of this paper was to present the contemporary view and recommendations on preserving extracted human teeth. The antimicrobial properties of the storage medium are a crucial aspect, as extracted teeth pose a risk of cross-infection. A classification of different methods (using solutions and otherwise) is presented and their sterilizing efficiency is compared based on the literature. The emphasis is put on the interaction between the storage conditions and the substrate. Tooth specimens should be biologically safe and have normal mechanical properties. The sterilizing process must be neutral for the enamel and dentin microstructure, because even a minor change can affect the adhesive bonding. Autoclave sterilization and storage in 10% formalin solution are widespread and reliable methods, although they do have their disadvantages. There is a need for further investigation in order to establish uniform recommendations on preparing and preserving extracted human teeth used for research purposes.

One-Year Clinical Aging of Low Stress Bulk-Fill Flowable Composite in Class II Restorations: A Case Report and Literature Review

“…Premolars were preserved in 0.2% thymol solution for one week in order to minimize bacterial contamination [36]. Next, samples for scanning electron microscope (SEM) images were prepared as described by Lapinska et al [37].…”

The effect of hydrochloric acid (HCl) on permanent molars: A scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) study

“…The two most commonly recommended and used sterilization methods, 10% formalin and autoclave, have been the subject of inconsistent findings regarding research outcomes. 22,23 After continuous immersion in HCl beyond 48 hours, dramatic morphological changes occured, where the dental tissues disintegrated nearly completely, leaving minute fragments (Figures 4 and 5). These fragments are so small that microscopic and elemental methods are extremely useful, if not essential, tools in determining whether or not human osseous or dental tissue is present in the context of acid disposal.…”

Publication trends in micro‐CT endodontic research: a bibliometric analysis over a 25‐year period

“…2a). In laboratory‐based studies, the reproduction of the clinical situation might be regarded as the major advantage of using extracted human teeth (Nawrocka & Łukomska‐Szymańska 2019). On the other hand, the wide range of variations in root canal morphology makes standardization difficult (Versiani et al .…”