Cells and material-based strategies for regenerative endodontics

Abstract

<p class = "Abstract" style = "margin: 0 cm; line-height: 32px; font-size: 12 pt; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span lang = "EN-US">The carious process leads to inflammation of pulp tissue. Current care options include root canal treatment or apexification. These procedures, however, result in the loss of tooth vitality, sensitivity, and healing. Pulp capping and dental pulp regeneration are continually evolving techniques to regenerate pulp tissue, avoiding necrosis and loss of vitality. Many studies have successfully employed stem/progenitor cell populations, revascularization approaches, scaffolds or material-based strategies for pulp regeneration. Here we outline advantages and disadvantages of different methods and techniques which are currently being used in the field of regenerative endodontics. We also summarize recent findings on efficacious peptide-based materials which target the dental niche.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

Graphical abstract

Highlights

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  Pulp infection necessitates removal of necrotic, inflamed and infected tissue.

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  Materials used clinically are inert (such as gutta percha, mineral trioxide aggregate).

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  Recent developments in materials (angiogenic hydrogels, stem cell composites) have tuneable bioactivity.

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  Dental pulp regeneration may now be possible through the use of bioactive systems, that guide regeneration.