ROLE OF STEM CELLS IN ORTHODONTICS - A REVIEW

The purpose of this article was to review and update current data of the use of stem cells for dental but specifically orthodontic purpose. Interest regarding stem cell based therapies for the treatment of congenital or acquired craniofacial deformities is rapidly growing. Craniofacial problems such as periodontal disease, cleft lip and palate, ear microtia, craniofacial microsomia, and head and neck cancers are not only common but also some of the most burdensome surgica l problems worldwide. Treatments often require a multi - staged multidisciplinary team approach. Current surgical therapies attempt to reduce the morbidity and social/emotional impact, yet outcomes can still be unpredictable and unsatisfactory. The concept o f harvesting stem cells followed by expansion, differentiation, seeding onto a scaffold and re - transplanting them is likely to become a clinical reality. In this review, we will summarize the translational applications of stem cell therapy in tissue regene ration for craniofacial defects.