Abstract
Post-extraction alveolar bone healing is crucial for dental rehabilitation, depending on the balance between osteoblast and osteoclast activity. This study evaluated the potential of SHED (stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth)-derived secretome gel in promoting bone regeneration. Eighteen male Rattus norvegicus were divided into three groups: negative control (placebo gel), positive control (absorbable gelatin sponge), and treatment (SHED-secretome gel). Maxillary first molars were extracted, and the respective materials were applied to the sockets. On day 7, histological samples were analyzed. Results showed that the SHED-secretome group exhibited significantly higher osteoblast and osteoclast numbers compared to controls, indicating active and balanced bone remodeling. The bone matrix appeared more organized, suggesting accelerated early healing. Statistical analysis (Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U with Bonferroni correction) confirmed significant differences (p < 0.01) in osteoblast and osteoclast counts across groups. In conclusion, SHED-secretome gel enhances early alveolar bone healing by promoting coordinated osteoblast-osteoclast activity essential for physiological bone remodeling.