CMCS/PEGDA-based photoresponsive hydrogel with high efficiency for gingival retraction and rapid hemostasis

Abstract

Prosthodontics is a dental specialty with a long history of providing patients with prostheses to restore or replace damaged or missing teeth and dentition. Gingival retraction is a vital step after tooth preparation to obtain aesthetic and functional restorations. Gingival retraction materials have been used in clinics and are among the most prospective alternatives to gingival retraction cords. However, gingival bleeding, increased tension of the gingiva, and saliva flushing after tooth preparation might cause difficulties in gingival retraction. The previous materials generally have inadequate mechanical strength, poor hemostasis, and irritating effects. To achieve effective and rapid gingival retraction and hemostasis is a key clinical challenge. This article has described a novel photoresponsive hydrogel based on carboxymethyl chitosan/polyethylene glycol diacrylate (CMCS/PEGDA). CMCS/PEGDA hydrogel injected into the gingival sulcus can rapidly solidify and absorb blood, concentrate clotting factors, and expand to push away the gingiva under blue light illumination. At the same time, CMCS/PEGDA hydrogel has excellent rheological properties, mechanical strength, and potent water absorption capacity. Additionally, CMCS/PEGDA hydrogel can aggregate blood cells and promote clotting. The novel composite hydrogel developed in this study has distinguished biocompatibility, splendid mechanical properties, and wonderful hemostasis ability, demonstrating the potential for application in the field of gingival retraction.