Hydrogels and Dentin-Pulp Complex Regeneration: From the Benchtop to Clinical Translation

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Endodontics

Background:

• The dentin-pulp complex is vital for tooth vitality and susceptible to damage, primarily from dental caries.
• Regeneration of this complex is crucial for restoring tooth function.
• Current regenerative endodontic procedures (REP) aim to regenerate the dentin-pulp complex using stem/progenitor cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of injectable hydrogels combined with stem/progenitor cells for dentin-pulp complex regeneration.
• To explore the characteristics and classification of hydrogel scaffolds.
• To highlight the advantages of hydrogels in regenerative endodontics.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on hydrogel scaffolds and regenerative endodontics.
• Classification of hydrogels into natural, synthetic, and hybrid types based on polymer source.
• Discussion of hydrogel properties such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, mechanical properties, and biofunctionalization.

Main Results:

• Hydrogels are versatile 3D scaffolds with high water content, biocompatibility, and tunable properties.
• Injectable hydrogels can be loaded with bioactive molecules and stem cells for localized delivery.
• Natural, synthetic, and hybrid hydrogels offer distinct advantages for dentin-pulp regeneration.

Conclusions:

• Injectable hydrogels combined with stem/progenitor cells represent a promising strategy for dentin-pulp complex regeneration.
• Hydrogel scaffolds can be tailored for specific regenerative applications in endodontics.
• Further research is needed to optimize hydrogel formulations for clinical success in regenerative endodontics.