RESUMO
Regenerative endodontics represents a paradigm shift in dental therapy, with the potential to not only restore damaged dental tissues but also to preserve the vitality of teeth. At the heart of this innovative approach is cell homing, a technique that harnesses the body's own healing mechanisms by recruiting endogenous stem cells to the site of dental injury for effective tissue regeneration. This review delves into the intricate processes of cell homing in the context of regenerative endodontics, particularly focusing on its application in immature teeth with open apices. It examines the role of bioactive molecules, scaffolds, and growth factors in orchestrating cell migration and differentiation within the root canal space. In addition, the review addresses the current limitations in clinical practice, such as the challenges in completely regenerating the pulp-dentin complex and the unpredictability in long-term outcomes. It also explores future possibilities, including the potential for more refined and effective regenerative strategies. By providing a comprehensive overview of the current state of cell homing in regenerative endodontics, this article aims to contribute to the ongoing development of advanced therapeutic techniques that could revolutionize endodontic treatment and improve patient care.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: General dentists are often the first healthcare professionals to see patients with orofacial pain (OFP). OFP conditions associated with the temporomandibular joint are often confused with dentoalveolar disorders, which leads to mismanagement. The objective of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) among newly graduated dentists compared to OFP specialists in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study utilizing an anonymous validated questionnaire assessing professional knowledge regarding TMDs in newly qualified dentists and OFP specialists. The questionnaire interrogated four domains including chronic pain/pain behavior, etiology, diagnosis/classification, and treatment/prognosis. OFP specialists were used as the reference group. RESULTS: A total of 393 dentists participated, a response rate of 67.6% in newly graduated dentists and 77.3% in OFP specialists. The degree of agreement between newly graduated general dentists and OFP specialists was highest for the "chronic pain and pain behavior" domain. The consensus among specialists was highest for the "treatment and prognosis" domain and the least for the "chronic pain and pain behavior" domain. CONCLUSION: Newly graduated general dentists have limited knowledge of TMD in almost all domains compared to specialists. Given that a lack of knowledge of TMD can lead to clinical mismanagement, dental school curricula must address this important knowledge gap.
