Effect of hydroxyapatite film formed by powder jet deposition on dentin permeability

A powder jet deposition (PJD) process can be used to create a thick hydroxyapatite (HA) film on the surface of a human tooth. This study aimed to investigate in vitro the ability of an HA film, applied using PJD, to diminish dentin permeability. Discs of human coronal dentin were cut perpendicular to the tooth axis and the smear layer was removed by EDTA treatment. The HA film was created by accelerating HA particles, calcinated at 1200°C, onto the dentin discs at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The surfaces and cross-sections of the HA PJD-treated samples were observed using scanning electron microscopy. Their permeability was indirectly recorded with a split-chamber device utilizing a chemiluminescence technique. MS-coat, a commercial dentin-desensitizing agent, was also evaluated for its effect on reducing liquid flow through the dentin. The scanning electron microscopy images showed that the HA particles were successfully deposited onto the dentin and solidly into the dentin tubules. The permeability of dentin after application of the HA films was significantly lower than that following application of MS-coat. This study showed the potential clinical application of PJD techniques in desensitizing dentin hypersensitivity.