REVIEW OF REGENERATIVE ENDODONTICS: CURRENT PROTOCOLS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

This review outlines the biological basis and clinicalprotocols currently used in regenerative endodonticprocedures (REPs) and discuss future directions in pulpregeneration approaches. The treatment of immature teethwith REPs has been described as a ‘paradigm shift’ asthere is the potential for further root maturation. Clinically,REPs involve disinfection of the root canal system withoutdamaging the endogenous stem cell potential present inthe apical papilla and other tissues. These stems cells areintroduced into the root canal space by inducing a bloodclot followed by placement of an intracanal barrier toprevent microleakage. The biological concept of REPsinvolves the triad of stem cells, scaffold and signallingmolecules. Currently, repair rather than true regenerationof the ‘pulp-dentine complex’ is achieved and further rootmaturation is variable. However, may clinicians considerthe treatment of teeth with REPs as the optimal treatmentapproach for immature teeth with pulp necrosis.