Coconut water is biologically pure and sterile, with a rich presence of amino acids,
proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The purpose of this study was to use a collagenase-dispase
assay to investigate the potential of a new storage medium, coconut water, in comparison
with propolis, Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS), and milk in maintaining viable
periodontal ligament (PDL) cells on simulated avulsed teeth. Seventy freshly extracted
human teeth were divided into 4 experimental groups and 2 control groups. The positive
and negative controls corresponded to 0-minute and 8-hour dry times, respectively.
The experimental teeth were stored dry for 30 minutes and then immersed in 1 of the
4 media (coconut water, propolis, HBSS, and milk). The teeth were then treated with
dispase grade II and collagenase for 30 minutes. The number of viable PDL cells was
counted with a hemocytometer and analyzed. Statistical analysis showed that coconut
water kept significantly more PDL cells viable compared with propolis, HBSS, or milk.
Coconut water can be used as a superior transport medium for avulsed teeth.