What are stem cells? Stem cells are unspecialized cells that have two defining properties: the ability to differentiate into other cells and the ability to self-regenerate. “There are two primary sources of stem cells: embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells. Adult stem cells are found in many organs and tissues in the human body, including the dental pulp contained within teeth”. Adult stem cells have the ability to divide and produce more stem cells, for example, the adult stem cell can be taken from one area of the body and can be transplanted into another area which will grow into a completely different type of tissue. Embryonic stem cells have the ability to develop into other cell types.
Just Recently, dental retrieval and storage of stem cells has become a topic of interest in the dental community. A few interesting facts of stem cells related to dentistry: “In 2000, dental pulp stem cells was discovered by a researcher at the National Institutes of Health. In 2003, The National Institutes of Health announces viable stem cells are in dental pulp of teeth. In 2004 to present, over 1,000 published studies identifying therapeutic potential of dental mesenchymal stem cells. Mesenchymal stem cells are found within the dental pulp of deciduous teeth, developing third molars, and the follicular tissue surrounding developing teeth and permanent teeth with healthy pulp. In 2008, Surgeons from Spain announced the world’s first tissue-engineered whole organ transplant procedure, using a trachea made with the patient’s own adult mesenchymal stem cells. And in 2009, Scientists from Italy announced the first-ever human clinical application using patients’ own dental stem cells to repair mandibular bone defects”. by: Bruce G. Freund, DDS
The process to obtain dental stem cells is not difficult at all. In fact, healthy stem cells are discarded daily after tooth extractions. The best time to recover and store dental stem cells are from the extracted baby teeth of a healthy child and those extracted from a healthy adolescent. Clinical research have demonstrated that dental stem cells can be used to regrow jawbone and treat periodontal disease. Other studies have also shown the potential for more uses in regenerative dentistry, such as growing new teeth, and uses in medicine. Ask your dentist for available services provide for an opportunity to recover and preserve yours and your families dental stem cells.
