Unlocking the Potential of Cellular Guidance in Endodontics: Advancing the Process of Pulp Regeneration and Beyond.

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.

Oral Health Status and Oral Health-related Quality of Life among Hospitalized and Nonhospitalized Geriatric Patients.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to compare the oral health status and its effect on the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of hospitalized and nonhospitalized elderly patients in a single community. The null hypothesis for the study states that there is no difference in the oral health status and OHRQoL between hospitalized and nonhospitalized elderly patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted at the King Khalid Hospital and College of Dentistry, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A total of 99 (43 - hospitalized and 56 - nonhospitalized) geriatric patients participated in this study. Oral health-related quality of life was estimated using the geriatric oral health assessment index questionnaire. Decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index and plaque index were used to assess the oral health status of the study participants. RESULTS: The mean age of the study participants was 68.2 years; 17.2% were females and 82.8% were males. There was no significant difference between hospitalized and nonhospitalized patients in OHRQoL and DMFT index. However, the oral hygiene status was better among nonhospitalized patients as compared with hospitalized patients. CONCLUSION: There was a significant difference in the oral hygiene status between hospitalized and nonhospitalized geriatric patients. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Caregivers must be sensitized to the importance of oral health for the elderly population, and oral health should be considered an integral component of general health.