Knowledge and Awareness about the Importance of Stem Cells in Dentistry: A Survey

Abstract

Background: Stem cells, the hero of regenerative medicine, are self renewable and has the potential to regenerate. Dental stem cells have proven to be an excellent source for mesenchymal cells. Dental mesenchymal cells can be applied for the replacement of dental and oral tissues against various tissue-damaging conditions including dental caries and periodontitis as well as for systemic regulation of excessive inflammation in immune disorders, such as autoimmune diseases and hypersensitivity.  In this study, a survey was conducted among the dental students of a private dental hospital regarding their awareness about stem cell therapy used in dentistry. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted with the help of a questionnaire which was circulated with the help of social media and the internet. The target population were the dental practitioners and students of Saveetha Dental College. The questionnaire consisted of 15 questions that tested their knowledge and awareness regarding stem cell therapy in dentistry. Results: A majority of the undergraduate dental students were aware of basics in stem cell therapy in dentistry. The majority were willing to practice regenerative therapy in future or invest for the same in one way or the other. The overall response of and the percent analysis were calculated for each question. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the dental students of Saveetha dental college have sufficient knowledge and awareness regarding dental stem cells. Practice of dental stem cell therapy may be a big step now but is definitely going to be an advantage in the future.