The effect of EDTA on the attachment and growth of cultured human gingival fibroblasts in periodontitis-affected root surface.

The purpose of the present study was to analyze the effects of 5% and 24% EDTA on the attachment of gingival fibroblasts to periodontally diseased root surfaces. A flat root surface was created on human teeth that were extracted due to severe periodontitis. The teeth were etched with the following concentrations of etylediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) for two minutes: 5% (group I) and 24% (group II). Group III was soaked in saline and served as a control. The specimens and fibroblasts were incubated in a culture medium for 24 hours each day for one and two weeks and photographed using scanning electron microscopy. Each specimen was examined for the migration of cells into the etched and non-etched root surface. No fibroblasts could be detected on the saline groups. More fibroblasts could attach to the surface treated with 24% EDTA than with 5% EDTA. It was concluded that supersaturated EDTA at 24% enhances the attachment of gingival fibroblasts to the root surface.