Development of Carbonate Apatite-Bovine Gelatin as a Novel Biomaterial for Dental Applications: Consistency, Potential, and Future Directions Ratih Widyasari,1,* Arief Cahyanto.2
1 Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani, Jl Terusan Jenderal Sudirman, Cimahi, Indonesia
2,Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Indonesia
*Corresponding author. Email: ratihwidyasari.drg.spkg[at]gmail.com
Abstract
Background: As dentistry advances, there is an increasing demand for materials that combine bioactivity, mechanical strength, and handling properties. Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) is widely used in dental procedures due to its handling ease, bioactivity in specific applications, and ability to release fluoride. Carbonate Apatite (CA) and Bovine Gelatin (BG) are promising materials for developing novel biomaterials that could mimic GIC^s handling properties while providing additional regenerative benefits. Objective: The objective of this study is to develop a CA-BG mixture with handling properties comparable to GIC and to evaluate its potential application in restorative and regenerative dentistry. Methods: Ten CA-BG mixtures were prepared with varying liquid-to-powder (L/P) ratios, starting from 0.5 to 1.5, in order to find the optimal consistency similar to GIC. The CA was blended with bovine gelatin solution and the consistency was evaluated. The L/P ratios closest to GIC were identified by consistency tests.Results: Three mixtures (L/P ratios of 0.5, 0.8, and 1.0) were identified as having the closest consistencies to GIC. The mixture with an L/P ratio of 0.6 provided the most optimal balance between fluidity and structural integrity. Discussion: The CA-BG mixture, especially at an L/P ratio of 0.6, demonstrated promising handling properties, making it a candidate for further research as a dental biomaterial. Conclusion: The CA-BG mixture shows handling properties comparable to GIC, with potential applications in both restorative and regenerative dentistry. Future research should focus on optimizing its biological properties for bone-regenerative procedures.
