Stem Cells to Regenerate Gums
 

July 2007 - Scientists at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), isolated human postnatal stem cells directly from the periodontal ligament, the fibrous, net-like tendon that holds our teeth in their sockets. These stem cells turned out to actually form periodontal ligament and cementum when transplanted into mice. The cells even produced fibrous structures similar to the so called Sharpey's fibers, which insert into both cementum and bone to hold teeth in place.
 

The group is now following up on this finding in larger animals. If successful, they are eager to evaluate their regenerative ability in people with advanced periodontal disease, which can be extremely difficult to control with current treatments. "From a clinical point of view, what's nice is these stem cells are easily accessible," said Shi. "In theory, people could one day preserve, or bank, these stem cells when they have their wisdom teeth extracted, opening the door for biology-based regenerative treatment later in life of advanced periodontal disease."

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