A survey of the opinions of Dentists regarding stem cells in Dentistry

• Published in: South African Dental Journal Vol. 71; no. 8; pp. 351 - 355
• Main Authors: Basson, RA, Moodley, DS, Oliviera, Basson, NJ
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Portuguese
• Published: The South African Dental Association (SADA) 01.09.2016
• Subjects: Biology; Dentistry, Oral Surgery & Medicine; Health Care Sciences & Services; Health Policy & Services; Medicine, General & Internal; Medicine, Research & Experimental
• ISSN: 0375-1562

Regenerative and stem cell therapy is a new field in dentistry. The opinions of dentists and their acceptance of the concepts are important in successful clinical implementation of these procedures. OBJECTIVES: To determine the levels of awareness, attitudes and knowledge concerning the therapeutic potential of stem cells in regenerative dentistry among dentists and to determine whether a need exists for additional training in the field MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire on regenerative dentistry was distributed to 140 dentists in the private sector in South Africa, consisting of three broad sections: Professional status; Opinions and Beliefs; and Clinical Practice. 130 copies were returned anonymously. A descriptive analysis of the frequencies was performed. RESULTS: The majority of the dentists (90%) had not received any training on stem cell therapies but many (73%) were interested in attending further training. Almost all participants (95%) would recommend regenerative therapies to their patients. The majority (80%) were willing to save teeth in cell banks for future therapeutic purposes. CONCLUSIONS: Dentists are supportive of using stem cell and regenerative dental procedures and most are willing to undergo more training in regenerative dentistry. A majority felt that the topic should be included in the undergraduate course.