Scaffolds in regenerative endodontics: A review

Abstract

Root canal therapy has enabled us to save numerous teeth over the years. The most desired
outcome of endodontic treatment would be when diseased or nonvital pulp is replaced with
healthy pulp tissue that would revitalize the teeth through regenerative endodontics. ‘A search was
conducted using the Pubmed and MEDLINE databases for articles with the criteria ‘Platelet rich
plasma’, ‘Platelet rich fibrin’, ‘Stem cells’, ‘Natural and artificial scaffolds’ from 1982-2015’. Tissues
are organized as three‑dimensional structures, and appropriate scaffolding is necessary to provide
a spatially correct position of cell location and regulate differentiation, proliferation, or metabolism
of the stem cells. Extracellular matrix molecules control the differentiation of stem cells, and an
appropriate scaffold might selectively bind and localize cells, contain growth factors, and undergo
biodegradation over time. Different scaffolds facilitate the regeneration of different tissues. To ensure
a successful regenerative procedure, it is essential to have a thorough and precise knowledge about
the suitable scaffold for the required tissue. This article gives a review on the different scaffolds
providing an insight into the new developmental approaches on the horizon.
Key Words: Extracellular matrix, pulp regeneration, scaffolds