Losing a tooth is a source of major pain, embarrassment as well as time, discomfort and expenses depending on the tooth replacement procedure you choose.
But that may soon be coming to an end. A new dental replacement procedure is in the works, and it could be a whole lot better than getting regular dentures or standard implants: Stem Cell Dental Implants.
It takes a while to get used to having teeth you were not born with, and some people’s gums and jawbones are just not suitable to receive dentures and other traditional implants. Some people have bad anxiety regarding dental procedures, and there are conditions that prevent some from receiving dentures. There are also many drawbacks to traditional dentures, including healing time, lengthy procedure, difficult failure scenarios and implant longevity.
Scientists have developed a new procedure for tooth replacement known as stem cell dental implants. According to a study that was published in the Journal of Dental Research, it could now be possible to regenerate your own teeth through stem cell stimulation. Dr. Jeremy Mao, a Professor of Dental Medicine at Columbia University Medical Research Center spearheaded the research.
Stem cells are those that help to create all of the organs and systems in your body. They are capable of changing every cell in your body and are found in most of your tissues. They not only help to create your body but also to replenish it.
Researchers found that our teeth contain stem cells. They are found in both baby and adult teeth and have the ability to completely regenerate themselves. Dental stem cells are highly compatible with the body’s immune system. This means your body is less likely to reject them, making them a viable option for treating many conditions.
In dentistry, they may be able to assist in healing certain aspects of the teeth before more involved procedures are required. For example, they could help to heal a cavity before you need a root canal or an extraction and dental implant.
How do these stem cell dental implants actually work?
Stem cells contain a growth-factor-infused 3D scaffolding which is then implanted into the area of the missing tooth, which then stimulates your body’s own stem cells to migrate to the area. In turn, this will stimulate the regeneration of an anatomically perfect tooth. What’s even more amazing is that this process only takes around two months.
These stem cells are from our own bodies and harnesses our own body’s resources. There is no need for stem cell harvesting or for anything to be grown outside of the body. This new process is completely natural and undergoes no form of manipulation.
When this is perfected this will be a very viable replacement to the current titanium dental implants.
Wishing everyone a Healthy and prosperous New Year.
Until Next time: Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and be Careful out in the World.
James A Vito, D.M.D.