Biological tooth repair: Harnessing dental stem cells for regenerative therapy and functional restoration of dental tissues

Objectives: To evaluate the regenerative potential of dental stem cells in biological tooth repair and functional tissue restoration. Methods: Published experimental and clinical studies on dental-derived mesenchymal stem cells, scaffold technologies, growth factors, and regenerative protocols were reviewed. Results: Dental pulp stem cells, periodontal ligament stem cells, SHED, and apical papilla stem cell demonstrated multilineage differentiation and immunomodulatory capacity. Integration of scaffolds, growth factors, and 3D bioprinting enhanced tissue regeneration. Challenges included vascularization, innervation, and regulatory barriers. Conclusions: Dental stem cell–based regenerative therapies show strong potential for restoring native dental tissues. Continued translational research is required to establish predictable clinical protocols.