Cryopreservation of stem cells might sound like something out of science fiction, but it is grounded in real, ongoing research. Some studies suggest that baby teeth contain stem cells with the potential to regenerate parts of the body, which has led to the concept of tooth banking — storing baby teeth for potential future medical use. However, while the science shows promise, it’s important to separate fact from speculation.
What Are Stem Cells?
Stem cells are unique cells with the ability to divide and develop into various cell types, including muscle, bone, and nerve cells. There are two main types of stem cells:
- Embryonic stem cells: Found in embryos during early development.
- Adult stem cells: Found in adult tissues, including bone marrow and fat.
Baby teeth contain a specific type of stem cell known as SHED (Stem cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous teeth). These cells have shown some ability to form dentin (a hard tissue of teeth) and other structures similar to bone. According to Dr. Pamela Robey from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, SHED cells may have promising regenerative potential, though much of this research is still in its early stages.
Biological insurance
Baby teeth are a source of stem cells like bone marrow and can be saved as a form of biological insurance. That said, scientists, doctors, and dentists are still divided as to whether or not it is worth doing right now.
“Right now, I don’t think it is a logical thing to do. That’s my personal opinion,” says Dr. Robey. “That’s not to say that in the future, somebody could come up with a method that would make them very beneficial,”
Potential Uses of Stem Cells from Baby Teeth
Some potential applications of stem cells include:
