Stem Cell Therapy in NYC

Stem Cell Therapy for Oral Health

Stem cells have a lot of potential in dentistry and can be used for numerous issues. They may restore pulp removed due to infection and help regenerate ligaments in the gums after damage from advanced periodontitis. Stem cell therapy may help some patients avoid a root canal by helping to biologically repair the tooth in cases where the tooth decay extends into the tooth pulp and causes pain and infection. 

One of the most promising applications of dental stem cell therapy is regenerating teeth. Scientists have made breakthroughs in using stem cells and are discovering these remarkable tissues can repair some areas of the teeth and the jawbone and gum tissue supporting them. 

Stem cells provide the natural building blocks for a tooth to regrow in the socket instead of using an artificial tooth and titanium post that replaces the tooth root (dental implant). Someone with tooth loss due to an accident or untreated dental decay often requires a dental implant, and tooth damage may also lead to loss of gum tissue and jawbone degradation. Scientists are still working on tooth regeneration for humans with stem cells. However, researchers were able to grow a tooth inside a rat’s mouth using stem cells and hope to move on to human teeth inside the mouth. 

Research published in Science Translational Medicine in 2018 reported that doctors were able to extract human dental pulp stem cells from healthy teeth in patients and implant them in damaged teeth. The dental pulp tissue regenerated with new sensory nerves and blood vessels within 12 months, and the roots continued maturing with this treatment. 

The Journal of Dental Research and Science Translation Medicine researched dental bone regeneration in the upper and lower jaws. Researchers found that Leptin-Receptor-Expressing Stem Cells (LepR+) could rebuild alveolar bone tissue around tooth sockets in the upper teeth after tooth extraction. This bone keeps the teeth in place and supports the roots. An adhesive hydrogel made with stem cells and microparticles to help oral cavity bone development may activate the regeneration of the oral cavity bone. 

Learn More About Stem Cell Therapy for Oral Health

If you’re interested in stem cell therapy for oral health, schedule a dental exam and consultation at New York Smile Institute. Our NYC dentists are one of few dentistry practices offering this regenerative treatment. Schedule a consultation at our New York, New York office at (212) 319-6363.

Dental Stem Cell Therapy FAQs

• What dental conditions can be treated with stem cell therapy?

  Stem cell therapy is being explored for a range of oral health applications. These include regeneration of dental pulp, healing of periodontal ligament damage from gum disease, repair of jawbone following tooth loss or trauma, and potentially reversing early nerve damage. While not yet a standard treatment, it also holds promise for patients with specific regenerative needs.

• How does stem cell therapy help regenerate jawbone or tooth pulp?

  Stem cells have the unique ability to differentiate into various tissue types. When placed in targeted areas, such as the jawbone or inside the tooth, they interact with bioactive molecules or scaffolds to stimulate new growth. 

  In bone regeneration, stem cells may restore lost alveolar bone that supports tooth roots. In pulp regeneration, they can potentially regrow nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue within the tooth.

• What types of stem cells are used in dentistry?

  Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are the most commonly studied in dentistry. These are typically harvested from dental pulp, bone marrow, or adipose tissue and are known for their ability to form bone, ligament, and connective tissue. Researchers are also exploring dental follicle stem cells and periodontal ligament stem cells for future applications.

• How is stem cell therapy different from traditional dental treatments?

  Unlike traditional procedures that restore structure with synthetic materials, stem cell therapy encourages the body to biologically heal or regenerate damaged tissue. Instead of placing a crown or implant, for example, stem cells may one day allow a tooth to rebuild itself from within. This approach aims for longer-term health and natural integration.

• Can stem cells replace dental implants in the future?

  While dental implants remain the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, stem cell research is moving toward biological tooth regeneration. Early studies have shown the potential to grow new teeth in animal models. The future goal is to regrow a tooth from a patient’s own stem cells — replacing implants with natural, living tissue.

• Who is a good candidate for dental stem cell therapy?

  Ideal candidates may include patients with early-stage pulp damage, localized bone loss, or those undergoing surgical procedures where regeneration is beneficial. However, stem cell therapy is still emerging, and eligibility depends on individual anatomy, treatment goals, and available clinical applications.

• What is the recovery like after stem cell treatment?

  Because stem cell therapy is typically combined with surgical or minimally invasive procedures, recovery is similar to those treatments. Patients may experience mild swelling, sensitivity, or discomfort, which resolves within days. The regeneration process itself takes place gradually over weeks or months

• Is stem cell dental therapy covered by insurance?

  Most stem cell-related dental procedures are not currently covered by insurance providers. However, aspects of related surgical procedures (such as grafting or extractions) may be eligible. Our team can help you understand coverage and financing options during your consultation.

• Why choose New York Smile Institute for stem cell dental therapy?

  New York Smile Institute is one of the few dental practices in the U.S. offering stem cell therapy for oral health. Our team stays at the forefront of innovation, combining advanced regenerative techniques with personalized, high-end care to support long-term healing and natural tissue restoration. Patients trust us for clinical excellence, discretion, and results that blend science and aesthetics.