Stem Cells In Dentistry

The oral area is a rich and unique source of stem cells, and it is therefore important for dental clinicians and researchers to further characterize these cells to develop new and effective strategies for dental applications. The focus of stem cell research in dentistry is there generation of missing oral tissues. In particular, there storation of alveolar ridge height is a major concern to prosthodontists because bone defects that arise after tooth loss usually result in further horizontal and vertical bone loss, which limits the effectiveness of dental implants and other prosthodontic treatments. Stem cell and tissue engineering therapies are expected to provide a novel capability to regenerate large defects in periodontal tissues and alveolar bone, and to ultimately replace the lost tooth itself. The tissues and organs targeted for such regenerative medicine strategies in dentistry include the salivary gland, tongue and craniofacial skeletal muscles, as well as the condylar cartilage of the temporomandibular joint.