Abstract

BASSON, RA; MOODLEY, DS; OLIVIERA, A  and  BASSON, NJ. A survey of the opinions of Dentists regarding stem cells in Dentistry. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2016, vol.71, n.8, pp.351-355. ISSN 0375-1562.

Regenerative and stem cell therapy is a new field in dentistry. The opinions of dentists and their acceptance of the concepts are important in successful clinical implementation of these procedures. OBJECTIVES: To determine the levels of awareness, attitudes and knowledge concerning the therapeutic potential of stem cells in regenerative dentistry among dentists and to determine whether a need exists for additional training in the field MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire on regenerative dentistry was distributed to 140 dentists in the private sector in South Africa, consisting of three broad sections: Professional status; Opinions and Beliefs; and Clinical Practice. 130 copies were returned anonymously. A descriptive analysis of the frequencies was performed. RESULTS: The majority of the dentists (90%) had not received any training on stem cell therapies but many (73%) were interested in attending further training. Almost all participants (95%) would recommend regenerative therapies to their patients. The majority (80%) were willing to save teeth in cell banks for future therapeutic purposes. CONCLUSIONS: Dentists are supportive of using stem cell and regenerative dental procedures and most are willing to undergo more training in regenerative dentistry. A majority felt that the topic should be included in the undergraduate course.

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