By taking a look at the headlines, by tuning into morning television programs, stem cells are regularly the subject of discussion, one that includes more and more primary teeth.

The discovery of stem cells in the dental pulp has led to much research and predictions about their potential uses. Although the full range of possibilities of stem cells derived from teeth is not yet known, some researchers believe that, someday, these could be valuable in the regeneration of dental tissues and, possibly, of other tissues as well.

With certainty, what is the complete range of possibilities of the cells isolated from the dental pulp, nor can one accurately predict whether or when these cells will be used in the clinical setting, patients and professionals need to make informed decisions.

What we do know, is that the cells of the dental pulp in milk teeth and wisdom teeth have the ability to produce dentin and tooth pulp, and they may have the ability to produce bone.

Dr. Jeremy Mao, a professor of dental medicine and director of the Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory at Columbia University, believes that dental stem cells and related bioengineering technologies will transform dentistry in a much greater magnitude than amalgams and dental implants.

“Some of the technologies can happen within 10 years, but others can happen in the next 10 years,” he predicted.

Currently, there are no human clinical studies being conducted with postnatal dental cells and there are no clinical applications available. There is also no central place for dentists or patients to read the latest news about dental stem cell research. Dr. Robey recommended that, anyone who hears statements about new evidence and dental stem cells.