What do dinosaurs and small children have in common?

The ability to regrow teeth. True, dinosaurs had an unlimited supply, while children’s teeth only replace themselves once – but human adults pale in comparison with tooth replacement or regeneration.

However, new research using Photobiomodulation, a targeted light healing procedure, could entice damaged teeth to regrow through the activation of stem cells.

Though the idea may sound a little strange to some, when we consider photobiomodulation has already been used to regenerate mammalian hearts, skin, lungs and nerves, tooth regrowth seems comparatively normal. So how exactly does the process work? According to NBC News:

The researchers used a low-power laser to coax dental stem cells to form dentin, the hard tissue similar to bone that makes up most of a tooth, demonstrating the process in studies involving rats and mice and using human cells in a laboratory.

They did not regenerate an entire tooth in part because the enamel part was too tricky. But merely getting dentin to grow could help alleviate the need for root canal treatment.

Though the results were less than perfect, they were progressive nonetheless. Pulp stones were formed in the place of dentin bridges. Researchers expressed that by adjusting the laser’s focus, results could be improved.

One of the researchers who led the work, Praveen Arany of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, explained: “I’m a dentist by training. So I think it has potential for great impact in clinical dentistry” and is “well poised for clinical translation.”

Specifically, reduced use of the dentist’s drill in place of comfortable laser-fired lights. As a dentist, this may be something to keep your eye out for, especially considering it may appeal to patients who typically avoid the dentist’s drill at all costs.

Disclaimer

The information contained in this, or any case study post in Incisor should never be considered a proper replacement for necessary training and/or education regarding adult oral conscious sedation. Regulations regarding sedation vary by state. This is an educational and informational piece. DOCS Education accepts no liability whatsoever for any damages resulting from any direct or indirect recipient's use of or failure to use any of the information contained herein. DOCS Education would be happy to answer any questions or concerns mailed to us at 106 Lenora Street, Seattle, WA 98121. Please print a copy of this posting and include it with your question or request.

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The information contained in this, or any case study post in Incisor, should never be considered a proper replacement for necessary training and/or education regarding adult oral conscious sedation. Regulations regarding sedation vary by state. This is an educational and informational piece. DOCS Education accepts no liability whatsoever for any damages resulting from any direct or indirect recipient's use of or failure to use any of the information contained herein. DOCS Education would be happy to answer any questions or concerns mailed to us at 3250 Airport Way S, Suite 701 | Seattle, WA 98134. Please print a copy of this posting and include it with your question or request.
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