TA@PN System-Mediated Collagen Cross-Linking and Biomimetic Mineralization for Dentinal Tubule Occlusion in Dentin Hypersensitivity Management

Abstract

The hydrodynamic theory suggests that the multidirectional flow of fluids within demineralized dentinal tubules (DTs) in response to external stimuli excites pulpal nerve fibers to produce nociception, causing dentin hypersensitivity (DH). Meanwhile, demineralized dentin’s collagen fibers are susceptible to attack by endogenous enzymes and disintegration, continuously decreasing the resistance of the dentin surface and dentin’s mechanical properties. Recross-linking and mineralizing damaged collagen fibers, closing DTs, and integrating antienzymatic functions remain significant challenges in dental regenerative medicine. To address these challenges, this study designed a tannic acid synergistic polyaspartic acid–nanohydroxyapatite system (TA@PN), evaluated its cross-linking effect on dentin collagen fibers and the intrafibrillar mineralization and antienzymatic ability, and verified its effect on dentin permeability. Finally, its biocompatibility and ability to induce osteogenic differentiation and biomineralization of MC3T3-E1 were assessed. TA@PN can help develop the next generation of multifunctional desensitizers and remineralizers.