The soft inner pulp of deciduous, or baby, teeth contains valuable stem cells. These cells offer a unique and accessible source of regenerative capabilities. Unlike other stem cell types, those from baby teeth are easily collected, presenting a promising avenue for future medical treatments. This emerging field of “tooth banking” allows families to preserve these cells for potential use in regenerative medicine.
Special Characteristics of Baby Teeth Stem Cells
Stem cells found in baby teeth are largely mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), a type of multipotent cell. This means they can differentiate into various specialized cell types, including bone, cartilage, nerve, and fat cells. Dental Pulp Stem Cells (DPSCs) and Stem Cells from Human Exfolied Deciduous teeth (SHED) are two well-studied populations within the dental pulp. These cells exhibit a high proliferative capacity, meaning they can multiply extensively in a laboratory setting.
The collection of these cells is considered non-invasive, as it typically involves naturally exfoliating baby teeth. Dental MSCs also show immunomodulatory properties, which could be beneficial in reducing immune responses during transplantation. Their youthful state, unimpacted by genetic or environmental factors, contributes to their potential for future cell therapies.
Promising Medical Applications
Research into baby teeth stem cells highlights their potential in regenerative medicine. These cells have shown promise in regenerating bone, cartilage, nerve, and dental tissues. For example, clinical trials have demonstrated successful dental tissue regrowth using stem cells from baby teeth in children with injured adult teeth, showing positive root development and increased blood flow.
Beyond tissue repair, these stem cells are being investigated for treating various diseases. This includes neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, where they may help replace damaged nerve cells. They are also being explored for autoimmune conditions like Type 1 Diabetes, where they could aid in insulin production, and for cardiovascular conditions, with some cells showing the ability to repair cardiac tissue. Also, dental-derived stem cells are a subject of interest in research for spinal cord injuries, with studies indicating their potential to differentiate into neural cells and promote repair in animal models.
How to Collect and Store Baby Teeth Stem Cells
Collecting stem cells from baby teeth typically involves healthy teeth that are either naturally exfoliating or extracted by a dentist. The process begins with families consulting a dentist to determine suitability. Once a tooth is ready for collection, a specialized kit is used to transport it.
The tooth needs to be immediately preserved after it comes out to maintain the viability of the cells within the pulp. The collected tooth is then sent to a dedicated stem cell banking facility. At the laboratory, the tooth is disinfected, and the dental pulp is carefully extracted. The isolated cells are then treated with a cryoprotectant solution before undergoing cryopreservation, a process of freezing at extremely low temperatures, typically in liquid nitrogen, for long-term storage.
Important Considerations for Families
Families considering banking baby teeth stem cells should evaluate several factors. The financial investment for collection and long-term storage is a primary consideration. Initial enrollment and processing fees can range from approximately $600 to $630, with annual storage fees around $100 to $120. Prepaid plans for 20 years of storage can range from about $1,800 to $2,430.
It is also important to understand the current status of research and clinical use. Many applications are still in experimental stages or clinical trials. Families should consult with their dental and medical professionals to make an informed decision, considering their family’s health history and specific circumstances. This consultation can help clarify the potential benefits and limitations.