Advancements in 3D in vitro cell culture models for dental research

Recent advancements in three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models have transformed dental research, offering more accurate and physiologically relevant platforms to study oral health and diseases. This review explores the progress from basic spheroid models to sophisticated tooth-on-a-chip systems, highlighting their potential clinical applications. Spheroid models, which mimic the tissue architecture, offer valuable insights into cellular interactions and responses to various treatments. However, their simplicity limits their ability to replicate the complex oral cavity environments.

Advancements made by transitioning from in vitro spheroid-based models to self-assembling 3D organoids or scaffold-based systems, which incorporate multiple cell types and extracellular matrix components, have enhanced the ability to mimic the native tissue environment and to study dental tissue development, regeneration, and pathological transition in greater detail. Similarly, the integration of microfluidic technology has led to the development of tooth-on-a-chip models that simulate the dynamic conditions of the oral cavity, including fluid flow and mechanical forces. These advanced models represent unprecedented opportunities for studying tooth development, disease progression, and the effects of dental treatments in a controlled and reproducible manner.

In vitro models, particularly 3D systems, offer promise for personalized medicine, allowing patient-specific testing of oral biomaterials and therapies. Concurrently, they also provide opportunities to study unique cell-to-cell interactions between host immune cells and putative bacteria, drugs, or antibiotic therapy/screening, potentially serving as an alternative to current animal models. This review highlights the importance of continued innovation in 3D in vitro modeling to advance understanding of dental biology and improve clinical outcomes.