Regeneração pulpar baseada em scaffolds: engenharia tecidual aplicada à endodontia

Abstract

The use of scaffolds in pulpal regeneration is a promising technique that has several advantages over conventional endodontic techniques. This study was carried out with the aim of providing a broad view of the biomaterials used as scaffolds in regenerative endodontics, their favorable properties and limitations. The research was carried out through the “PubMed” portal, using the following descriptors: “dental pulp regeneration”, “regenerative endodontics”, “pulp regeneration scaffolds”, “biomaterials for pulp regeneration”. Conventional endodontic therapy proposes the removal of inflamed or infected pulp tissue, through disinfection of the root canal space, canal conformation and obturation with inert material. The biological rationale for this technique is based on the fact that infected pulpal tissue can lead to an inflammatory response in the periapical tissue, resulting in pain, swelling and, in more severe cases, abscess or cellulitis. However, removal of pulp tissue can weaken the structure of the tooth, making it more prone to fractures, the conventional technique can also result in excessive removal of dentin, which can compromise the resistance of the tooth to occlusal forces. In this way, pulp regeneration based on scaffolds can be the ideal therapy to avoid the weakening of the tooth structure caused by conventional endodontic therapy, because this new technique aims to stimulate the regeneration and formation of a new functional pulp tissue, maintaining the structural integrity of the tooth. and reduce the need for additional interventions. Through the application of tissue engineering principles, by transplanting stem cells along with growth factors and a biological scaffold into the prepared pulp cavity, the stem cells can proliferate and differentiate into various cells to achieve functional regeneration of the pulp. It was found that, although this technique is still in the development and improvement phase, the available scientific evidence suggests that it may be a viable alternative to conventional endodontic therapy.