Stem cells in current paediatric dentistry practice

New protocols for regenerative endodontic treatment along with the parallel development of tissue engineering technologies are changing traditional knowledge and treatment possibilities for young patients with pulp-affected permanent immature teeth. The regeneration and completion of apical root development in pathological situations such as these is a clinical challenge that traditional treatments have not so far been able to resolve with complete success. In clinical terms, the decision of whether to perform apexogenesis or apexification on an immature tooth is determined by whether the pulp tissue is vital or non-vital. Recent evidence and reports in the literature have questioned the old dogmas. In this respect, the ever growing scientific literature in this field makes it essential to compile a critical reflection and summary of everything that has been written to date, in order to understand the biological basis of current clinical advances and ensuing lines of future therapy. In this paper, we wish to give scientific coverage and background to more recent clinical and molecular advances described in the field of apical regeneration using stem cell therapy and their potentially key role in the future clinical success of new pulp regenerative protocols.