In vitro properties of gellan gum sponge as the dental filling to maintain alveolar space

► Microbial polysaccharide (Gellan gum) as the dental filling material is a new application. ► De novo design of Gellan gum sponge with optimal properties for maintaining the space and shape of dental cavities after dental extractions. ► The blood absorption capacity, degradation property and cell migration inhibition of Gellan gum based filling are better than commercial product. ► In this study provided the bases for designing dental filling based on microbial polysaccharides.