 |
| This review offers a succinct summary of recent advancements in treatment strategies, focusing on the utilization of dental tissue–derived stem cells and the revolutionary influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on regenerative and restorative dentistry.1,2 |
| The progress in regeneration and tissue engineering hinges on three primary elements: stem cells, bioactive molecules, and biomaterial scaffolds, which collectively boost the reparative capabilities of the resident cells of the tissue whilst promoting the migration of more stem cells towards the site of injury and propagating the overall regenerative or reparative process.1 |
| AI, which previously relied on human dexterity and experience, is increasingly being utilized in dentistry to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and patient outcomes. Its capability to process extensive datasets and recognize intricate patterns is revolutionizing the diagnosis and treatment of dental disorders, making it the technological foundation reshaping the field of dentistry.2 |
| Recent progress and prospective strategies in regenerative dentistry capturing the interest of dentists is shown in the below figure.1 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
Current trends and future perspectives in
regenerative dentistry1 |
 |
|
|
|
| Cell sheets, spheroids, and organoids |
|
|
| Cell sheets are a scaffold-free cell therapy that forms high-density sheet structures out of cells and their extracellular matrix. |
 |
| Spheroids are dense, 3D cell aggregates that, in addition to having a well-formed network of cells in an ECM mimicking the microenvironment found in native tissues, are capable of creating a potent secretome that promotes angiogenesis, mitigates inflammation, and recruits host cells to enhance repair and regeneration. |
|
| Fabrication of organoids is another cell-based regenerative approach that involves in vitro generation of 3D tissue constructs that mimic the complex microanatomy and function of the corresponding tissue in vivo using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), or adult stem cells. |
|
|
|
| An advanced manufacturing technology capable of producing personalized 3D objects using standardised material based on computer-aided design (CAD) digital models. |
|
| This cutting-edge technique involves a complex process where the exact positioning of biomaterials/scaffolds is done with cells embedded in a desired pattern with spatial control of functional component placement. |
|
|
|
| The applications of layered scaffolds in dentistry are especially beneficial in periodontal tissue regeneration. In this approach, 3D structures are generated layer-by-layer based on CAD, incorporating stem cells, biomaterials, and growth factors, facilitating the development of multiphasic scaffolds, with each layer designed to regenerate a specific section of the periodontium. |
|
|
|
| MSC-secreted exosomes are currently considered a viable, cell-free, therapeutic alternative for the use of cells. |
|
| The biological functions of exosomes depend on the cells’ physiologic or pathologic status at the time of secretion and include immune response modulation, signal transduction, and epigenetic modification. |
|
|
| AI has transformed restorative dentistry by revolutionizing diagnostic procedures, treatment planning, and the production of dental prosthetics. The table below outlines its applications in each respective step.2 |
| Applications of AI in restorative dentistry |
|
 |
| AI applications in diagnosis encompass early detection of conditions such as periodontal diseases and caries. |
|
| By analyzing patient data, clinical histories, and diagnostic images, machine learning algorithms can identify subtle patterns associated with these conditions. |
|
| This early identification enables prompt intervention, prevents disease advancement, and supports the implementation of minimally invasive treatment strategies. |
|
 |
| AI can generate personalized treatment plans by considering individual health records, risk factors, and treatment outcomes. |
|
| Image analysis |
|
 |
| AI demonstrates exceptional capability in interpreting radiographic images, significantly improving the accuracy of identifying dental pathologies. |
|
| Image segmentation techniques powered by deep learning algorithms enable the precise delineation of anatomical structures, allowing for better visualization of dental issues. |
|
 |
| AI plays a crucial role in analyzing intraoral images, assisting in the detection of conditions like enamel erosion, gingival inflammation, and early-stage lesions. |
|
| Prosthodontics and CAD/CAM |
|
 |
| AI algorithms optimize the design of dental prostheses to ensure precise fit and functionality. |
|
| Taking into account individual anatomical variations and occlusal dynamics, AI enhances the development of prosthetic devices that closely replicate natural dentition. |
|
 |
| AI-guided CAD/CAM processes are more efficient for streamlining the fabrication of dental prostheses. AI algorithms facilitate rapid prototyping, thereby reducing the time that patients spend in the prosthodontics treatment cycle. |
|
|
| CAD/CAM: Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing |
|
| GGI-CO-A1-AQS-300032384-WM-G24-0537 |
| References: |
| 1. |
Thalakiriyawa DS, Dissanayaka WL. Advances in Regenerative Dentistry Approaches: An Update. Int Dent J. 2024 Feb;74(1):25-34. doi: 10.1016/j.identj.2023.07.008. Epub 2023 Aug 2. PMID: 37541918; PMCID: PMC10829373. |
| 2. |
Arjumand B. The Application of artificial intelligence in restorative Dentistry: A narrative review of current research. Saudi Dent J. 2024 Jun;36(6):835-840. doi: 10.1016/j.sdentj.2024.03.017. Epub 2024 Mar 21. PMID: 38883908; PMCID: PMC11178959. |
|
|
|
