Bone marrow is the soft, spongy tissue found in the center of most bones. While it is widely known for producing the body’s blood cells, including red cells, white cells, and platelets, its role in other areas of health is a subject of ongoing scientific exploration.
Teeth are hard, calcified structures anchored in the jawbone. They are composed of several layers: the outer enamel, the underlying dentin, and the inner pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. A layer called cementum covers the tooth’s root, helping to attach it to the jaw. A growing area of research is investigating how bone marrow components might be used to address issues within these dental structures.
Bone Marrow Derived Stem Cells for Dental Tissues
Bone marrow contains different cell populations, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These cells are distinct from the blood-forming stem cells also present in the marrow and are of significant interest to researchers for their biological properties.
A defining characteristic of MSCs is their multipotency, the capacity to develop into various specialized cells like osteoblasts (bone-forming), chondrocytes (cartilage-forming), and adipocytes (fat-forming). This flexibility suggests they could also form the cells needed to repair dental tissues. These cells can also renew themselves, creating a lasting supply for potential tissue maintenance.
MSCs produce growth factors and molecules that can influence the behavior of surrounding cells and suppress inflammation. This function can create a more favorable environment for tissue healing within the mouth. This combination of abilities makes bone marrow-derived MSCs a focus for scientists studying dental regeneration.
Potential Dental Regenerative Uses
Researchers are investigating several specific applications for bone marrow-derived stem cells in dentistry, including:
- Regenerating dental pulp, the living tissue inside a tooth. When this pulp becomes infected or damaged, the goal is to use MSCs to regrow healthy tissue as an alternative to traditional root canal treatments.
- Repairing dentin, the hard tissue beneath the enamel. Scientists are exploring if MSCs can be prompted to form new dentin, repairing damage from cavities from within the tooth and reinforcing its structure.
- Regenerating the periodontal ligament, the connective tissue fibers that attach a tooth to the jawbone. In advanced gum disease, this ligament is destroyed, so applying MSCs could help rebuild these fibers and re-stabilize the tooth.
- Performing alveolar bone augmentation, as this part of the jaw that holds teeth can deteriorate. Rebuilding this bone with MSCs could provide a solid foundation for dental implants or strengthen support for existing teeth.
The Research Landscape for Bone Marrow in Dentistry
The application of bone marrow for dental purposes is in the research and experimental phases and not yet a standard treatment in general dental practices. The majority of work is conducted in laboratory settings and with animal models to establish safety and effectiveness.
In laboratory (in vitro) studies, scientists focus on directing bone marrow-derived stem cells to become specific dental cell types. They also work on developing scaffolds or materials that can hold the cells in place and support the growth of new tissue. These studies are foundational for understanding the biological processes involved.
Promising laboratory findings often move into animal model studies. These in vivo investigations allow researchers to test tissue-engineering strategies in a living system. This step is for evaluating how the regenerated tissue integrates with the host’s body and for identifying potential challenges before human application.
A small number of early-phase human clinical trials have been initiated for certain applications, but this work is still preliminary. The primary goals of current research are to refine cell delivery methods, ensure the new tissue functions correctly, and confirm the long-term safety of these procedures.