Abstract:
Stem cells can self-renew and produce different cell types, thus providing new strategies to
regenerate missing tissues and treat diseases. In the field of dentistry, adult mesenchymal stem/stromal cells
(MSCs) have been identified in several oral and maxillofacial tissues, which suggests that the oral tissues are a
rich source of stem cells, and oral stem and mucosal cells are expected to provide an ideal source for
genetically reprogrammed cells such as induced pluripotent stem cells. Furthermore, oral tissues are expected
to be not only a source but also a therapeutic target for stem cells, as cellular and tissue engineering therapies
in dentistry continue to attract increasing clinical interest. This review outlines various types of intra- and
extra-oral tissue-derived stem cells with regard to clinical availability and applications in dentistry.
Additionally, appropriate sources of stem cells for regenerative dentistry are discussed with regard to
differentiation capacity, accessibility and possible immunomodulatory properties..