The Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Dentistry: A Review

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have garnered significant attention in regenerative dentistry due to their remarkable ability to differentiate into various cell types and their immunomodulatory properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in MSC research relevant to dentistry, focusing on their potential applications in periodontal tissue regeneration, dental pulp regeneration, and maxillofacial bone repair. Periodontal diseases, which affect the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, are a significant challenge in dentistry. Current treatments often involve surgical intervention and tissue grafting. MSCs have shown promise as a potential alternative for periodontal tissue regeneration, as they can differentiate into periodontal ligament cells, cementoblasts, and osteoblasts. Several preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of MSC-based therapies in periodontal regeneration. Dental pulp regeneration is another area where MSCs hold promise. Damaged or infected dental pulp can lead to pulpitis or pulp necrosis, necessitating root canal treatment. MSCs have been studied for their ability to regenerate dental pulp tissue and promote pulp healing. They can differentiate into odontoblast-like cells and regenerate dentin-like tissue, making them a potential treatment option for dental pulp regeneration. In maxillofacial bone repair, MSCs have been investigated for their osteogenic differentiation potential and ability to stimulate bone regeneration. Studies have shown promising results, suggesting that MSC-based therapies could be a viable treatment option for maxillofacial bone defects. The mechanisms underlying MSC-based therapies in dentistry are not fully understood but are thought to involve a combination of paracrine effects, immunomodulation, and differentiation into specific cell types. Future research should focus on addressing these challenges and exploring novel approaches for enhancing the regenerative potential of MSCs in dentistry.