Three approaches to overcome the disadvantages of regenerative medicine in dentistry: Making regenerative medicine an “accessible” medical treatment

Abstract

Japan is one of the most advanced countries in the field of regenerative medical research. However, in clinical dentistry, "regenerative medicine" is much less known than operative dentistry and prosthetic treatments. Despite the rapid development of regenerative medicine, enactment of relevant laws, and their interests in practicing regenerative medicine, dentists remain hesitant to provide regenerative therapies to patients. After graduating from a dental school, and working at several dental clinics for eight years, I continued my studies by pursuing a doctoral degree at my alma mater. My graduate studies provided me an opportunity to pursue my strong interest in medical research, and I became particularly committed to the study of stem cells, and I obtained a PhD in developmental and regenerative medicine. Currently, in addition to being engaged in stem cell research at the university, I teach developmental biology and regenerative medicine and other related clinical dentistry topics to undergraduate and graduate students. To increase familiarity with regenerative medicine in dentistry, I am seeking to overcome the disadvantages of regenerative medicine in dentistry. In this paper, I introduce three approaches for overcoming the disadvantages of regenerative medicine in dentistry. I have developed these approaches as a result of my involvement in this field from various perspectives as a dentist. Finally, I propose further possibilities for dental treatment.