REGENERATION ENDODONTICS
The practice of endodontics has recently joined forces with other fields of medicine to explore new methods of regenerative treatment. Here at Oak Endodontics & Implant Dentistry, we strive to keep abreast of recent developments, studies, and discoveries within endodontics.
Regenerative endodontics seeks new ways of utilizing protocols known as regenerative endodontic procedures (REP) to treat difficult cases of pulpal necrosis by regenerating functional pulpal tissue. These techniques are proven to restore damaged tissue. This article will explain these procedures in further detail.
WHAT IS REGENERATIVE ENDODONTICS?
The publication Endodontics: Colleagues For Excellence defines regenerative endodontics as biologically based procedures designed to replace damaged structures, including dentin and root structures, as well as cells of the pulp-dentin complex.
Thanks to advances in tissue engineering, endodontists can use REPs to boost the thickness of canal walls in immature teeth with pulpal necrosis, develop the root apex, and heal apical periodontitis.
Tissue engineering has three main components.
Stem Cells
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that are capable of continual division. They are subdivided into embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells. Embryonic stem cells have about 200 cell types they can develop into. Adult stem cells can divide and create cells, both similar to the original and more varied ones, but they are more limited in their differentiation than embryonic stem cells are.
Scaffolds
Made from natural materials, dentin, or platelet-rich plasma in the root canal, scaffolds support cell differentiation, organization, proliferation, and vascularization. Some scaffolds are designed as permanent fixtures, but others are biodegradable.
Growth Factors
Growth factors are proteins that are meant to attach to the cell’s receptors, serving as signals to encourage differentiation and proliferation of cells.
All three combine in regenerating damaged tissue in a process that involves the following stages:
• Disinfecting the pulp
• Releasing the dentin’s growth factors
• Encouraging bleeding to send stem cells into the root canal
• Forming a scaffold and
• Sealing up the tooth
The outcome depends on the individual, but successful cases have shown:
• Ongoing root growth
• Thicker canal walls in permanent immature teeth
• Healing of periapical infections
• Fewer cases of previous symptoms
OAK ENDODONTICS & IMPLANT DENTISTRY AND REGENERATION ENDODONTICS
Oak Endodontics & Implant Dentistry is happy to offer regenerative endodontic therapy as a successful and exciting new treatment option. Our goal is for our patients to regain the look and performance level their teeth once had, and with regeneration endodontics, that goal is achievable.
Each one of us is dedicated to integrity and excellence in providing quality care and relationships with our patients. All of our endodontists have individually received the title of Best Dentist.
Oak Endodontics & Implant Dentistry offers the best that dental delivery systems, radiography, and microscopy can offer. Modern advances in endodontic technology allow us to treat, restore, and save teeth afflicted by inflamed or infected pulp. Our team of trained specialists is skilled in diagnosing and treating issues on the insides of teeth and goes the extra mile to ensure your experience is as painless and comfortable as possible. We’re excited about what the future of regeneration endodontics has in store for us and for you.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call (703) 272-4389.
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN
OAKTON AND MANASSAS, VA
OAKTON, VA
Oak Endodontics
2944 Hunter Mill Rd. Suite 202
Oakton, VA 22124
MANASSAS, VA
Oak Endodontics
8209 Sudley Rd.
Manassas, VA 20109