Regenerative Endodontics
Natick, MA
 Teeth that have not fully developed roots have shorter roots with thin walls, making them less durable over time. Regenerative endodontics offers a solution by promoting root growth in immature teeth with damaged pulps. This method provides a significant advantage compared to traditional root canal treatment, particularly for young patients. Our Elite Dental of Natick dentists understand that preserving teeth is crucial for overall skeletal and dental health. This is why they advise parents to use regenerative endodontics in place of root canals.
What is Regenerative Endodontics?
Regenerative endodontics (RET) is a procedure where infected pulp is removed from the root. Bioactive matter-enriched growth factors and stem cells are then placed inside. This helps to grow new tissue, such as the core parts of the tooth, like pulp and dentin. Over time, this new tissue can restore the natural function and structure of the tooth.
The main goal is to achieve root maturation and closing of the tip of the root, allowing the tooth to continue growing normally. This treatment is particularly beneficial for young patients whose teeth are still developing. In contrast, traditional root canal therapy (RCT) might result in thin and fragile roots, potentially increasing the risk of tooth breakage over time. RET, on the other hand, aims to promote root growth, making teeth stronger and more resilient.
Regenerative Healing Explained
Regenerative endodontics is a concept of regenerative healing. Although regenerative healing is still relatively underdeveloped, it is advancing daily in dental practices. Many dentists are already applying it, and we are right there at the forefront of technology. To understand the concept better, let us look at what regenerative medicine means.
Wound healing is a process affected by injuries where some tissues might not follow the same natural control or balance as regular body tissues during development. Despite this, extensive research has delved into these normal bodily processes to create a model for understanding the molecular and cellular events involved in pulp repair and regrowth. There are many similarities in these processes, though the regulatory mechanisms can be different.
When looking at how the dentine-pulp complex reacts to injuries, whether caused by trauma or cavities, it is crucial first to understand the severity of the injury, as this has significant implications for subsequent cellular processes. In the early stages of injury or when it is relatively mild, the pulp reacts by increasing the secretory activity of the odontoblasts at the injury site. This results in the focal deposition of a type of tertiary dentine (reactionary dentine) at the boundary of the pulp and dentine.
This response is considered both defensive, as it increases the barrier against further bacterial attacks, and regenerative, as it restores the structural integrity of the tissue. Since this reactionary dentinogenesis happens due to the activity of existing primary odontoblasts, the new dentine formed has a regular tubular structure that continues the tubular pattern of the existing primary or secondary dentine matrices. Consequently, the new tissue is expected to behave similarly to the original tissue. These responses are commonly seen in early cavities or significant wear on the tooth surface.
Benefits of Regenerative Endodontics
Regenerative endodontics provides various advantages compared to traditional endodontic treatments. While this method is still in its early development, many patients across the world have benefited from it. Some of its benefits include:
Natural and Compatible with the Body
Regenerative endodontic procedures incorporate natural materials and techniques that seamlessly integrate with the body, thus reducing the risk of adverse reactions or complications. Those who suffer from metal allergies may not qualify for root canals but will find regenerative endodontics very helpful. Research indicates that regenerative endodontic procedures exhibit superior success rates, particularly in instances involving immature teeth with open apices.
Economical in the Long Run
Regenerative endodontics presents an opportunity to circumvent the necessity for dental implants or other therapeutic methods, which tend to be more invasive and costly. Although regenerative endodontic procedures may entail higher initial costs than traditional treatments, they prove to be a financially viable choice in the long term by lessening the requirement for subsequent treatments or restorations.
Decreased Likelihood of Future Infections
Thanks to regenerative medicine procedures, an active root canal system is established. A healthy, functioning root can effectively resist infections and promote prolonged tooth well-being.
Regenerative Endodontics Eligibility
Unfortunately, not all patients meet the criteria for regenerative endodontic procedures. The eligibility of a patient for such treatments depends on several factors. The main factors of consideration include:
Age of the Patient
The procedure is best for young teeth, and hence, those of a younger age benefit from it. Regenerative endodontic treatments yield the most favorable results for patients below the age of 18, especially those under 13, while their root development is still in progress.
Overall Health
Patients with specific medical conditions or compromised immune systems may not be ideal candidates for regenerative endodontic procedures. These treatments depend on a robust immune response for successful tissue regeneration.
The Level of Tooth Maturity
Individuals with immature teeth are better candidates for regenerative endodontic procedures. These procedures performed on immature teeth promote new tissue growth and assist in root development.
Teeth Infection Status
Teeth experiencing active infections may not be suitable for regenerative endodontics due to the potential hindrance to the regenerative process. A thorough examination by a dentist is necessary to determine patient eligibility for the procedures.
Tooth Structure
Teeth with intact coronal structures offer a good ground for regenerative endodontics. The structure serves as a protective barrier for the newly regenerated tissue.
Overall Pulp Vitality
The efficacy of regenerative endodontic treatments is highest in teeth with vital pulp tissue. This tissue provides the essential growth factors and stem cells needed for successful tissue regeneration.
Regenerative endodontics offers a hopeful, modern method for addressing damaged or infected teeth. By harnessing the innate healing processes, the development of new tissue is encouraged, ultimately restoring the function of the affected tooth. As research progresses, regenerative endodontics is expected to gain popularity among dental patients who wish to maintain their natural teeth. If you are interested in learning more about this process, our Elite Dental of Natick dentists are ready to help. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us at (508) 319-9339, and you will be redirected to a regenerative endodontics expert. |
