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Q: Is it true that scientists think we may be able to grow replacement
teeth?
A: The science of dentistry continues to advance. And it is indeed
true that in the future it may be possible to grow replacement
teeth using adult stem cells that are abundant in a person's wisdom
teeth and in baby teeth. This, at least, is the opinion of Pamela
Robey, chief of the Craniofacial and Skeletal Diseases Branch of
the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, which
is part of the National Institutes of Health.
The theory is that
a tooth root could be created using a person's stem cells that
have been stored. And once there's a living root, dentists could
easily put a crown around it. Some experts believe that within
a few years dentists will treat periodontal disease with regeneration
by using stern cells to create hard and soft tissue. They would
be able to remove a tooth that's about to fall out and reconnect
it firmly using regenerated tissue. Regenerating an entire tooth-from
enamel to nerves-is no easy matter. But even that, the experts
say, could happen within five to ten years. Talk with your dentist
about the advances that are being made in the field and how they
might affect your choices today.
June 22, 2009
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