Oral Stem Cells: The Fountain of Youth for Epithelialization and Wound Therapy?

Significance: The oral cavity represents a novel source of a large number of stem cells. Recent Advances: Stem cell populations have been identified in dental pulp, gingival epithelium, gingival lamina propria, and the periodontal ligament. Critical Issues: The utility of using tissues of the oral cavity as a source of stem cells has been only partially explored. Much remains to be learned about the capability of these cells and the differences between cells derived from dissimilar oral locations. Future Directions: The feasibility of using orally derived stem cells to support tissue regeneration and wound repair is a promising concept that requires additional investigation.