Potential of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate as Chelating Agent against Matrix Metalloproteinase Expression and as Cross-Linking Agent Towards Hybrid Layer in Dentin Collagen: A Review

Adhesive dentistry’s main assumption is to create a strong chemical bond between dental hard tissues and restorative composite material. One of the most important aspects of this interface is the hybrid layer. Unfortunately, due to physical and chemical causes, the hybrid layer wears away with time. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a component extracted from green tea, has several roles in the medical and dentistry field including as a crosslinking agent and as a chelating agent. Although there are several negative results, EGCG was proven to be able to preserve resin-dentin bonds without harming the restoration. As a crosslinking agent and chelating agent, EGCG has the potential to enhance the physical properties of dentin collagen and resin-dentin adhesion. The purpose of this study was to see how EGCG, as a cross-linking agent, affected dentinal collagen and hybrid layers, as well as how chelating chemicals affected Matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs).