Cell-Based Regenerative Endodontics for the Treatment of Irreversible Pulpitis: An In Vivo Investigation

Introduction This study aims to investigate the ability of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSC) to enhance the regeneration of pulp-dentin complex in immature permanent teeth with irreversible pulpitis. Methods A total of 32 mandibular premolar teeth with immature apices in 5 dogs were used in this in-vivo randomized controlled trial. Eight healthy teeth without pre-existing pathosis served as the positive control samples and received no treatment, while in another eight teeth, the pulp was completely extirpated (negative control). Class V cavities were prepared to induce inflammation in the remaining 16 teeth (groups 3 and 4) and the pulp was extirpated 2-4 mm short of the radiographic apex. Of the 16, the eight teeth in group 4 received 1 mL of cord blood stem cells with a hydrogel scaffold. Blood clots were covered with mineral trioxide aggregates at the cementoenamel junction in the experimental groups, and teeth were filled with RMGI and composite. Three months later, block sections were removed for histologic evaluations for the evaluation of post-operative apical closure, degree of inflammation, and presence of normal pulp tissue. The data were statistically analyzed with the chi-square test (P < .05). Results All teeth with complete pulp extirpation demonstrated pulpal necrosis with no post-operative closure of their apices, while apical closure was seen in all the teeth in the remaining groups. There was a statistically significant (P <0.001) difference in the presence of inflammation and normal pulp tissue between the experimental groups. The teeth in group 3 showed normal pulp tissue extending to the level of MTA, but there was inflammation within the canal space. In contrast, the teeth in the UC-MSC group demonstrated organized, normal pulp tissue with no inflammation. Conclusion Based on these results, the regeneration of the pulp-dentin complex is possible with no inflammation when UC-MSCs are used and 2-4 mm of the apical pulp remains intact in immature teeth with irreversible pulpitis.