Introduction: Cellular therapy constitutes a new therapeutic alternative in regenerative endodontics. In this case report, we evaluated the capacity of allogeneic mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to induce dental pulp and apical bone regeneration in a tooth previously endodontically treated.
Methods: A healthy 55-year-old female patient consulting for swelling and a sinus tract associated with tooth #8 was referred for an endodontic evaluation. Previously, tooth #8 had undergone root canal treatment and apical resection and had no response to thermal or electric pulp testing. Radiographically, tooth #8 showed root canal treatment, a cut apex angle, and periapical radiolucency. The root canal was recleaned and shaped, and calcium hydroxide was used as an interappointment medication. Cryopreserved allogeneic bone marrow MSCs were thawed, expanded, incorporated into preclotted platelet-rich plasma, and implanted into the pulp cavity of tooth #8. The cervical part of the canal was sealed with bioceramic cement and a composite.
Results: After 14 months of MSC transplantation, tooth #8 showed sensitivity to cold and electric pulp tests. Radiographic and cone-beam computed tomographic imaging showed signs of increased periapical bone density, healing of the periapical lesion, and almost complete apical remodeling.
Conclusions: This case report shows periodontal bone formation, apex remodeling, and dental pulp regeneration induced by allogeneic MSC transplantation in a mature nonvital tooth. Allogeneic MSCs may constitute a first-line therapy in regenerative endodontics.
Keywords: Apical regeneration; mesenchymal stromal cells; pulp regeneration; regenerative medicine; root canal; transplantation.
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