Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentistry

Thursday, October 30, 2008

COULD YOUR TEETH SAVE YOUR LIFE IN THE FUTURE?

We've all heard about stem cells and their potential. Many diseases can have treatments developed from stem cells. Some of these diseases are heart related, Parkinson's disease, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, and multiple sclerosis, just to name a few.

Just what are stem cells anyway? They are found in everyone, no matter what your age. They are stored in and steer the healing processes in our bodies. Adult stem cells are non-specific and early stage cells that have the ability to duplicate themselves and to grow. They can become bone, muscle, or organ tissue when we are sick or are injured. Knowing about stem cells and their benefit is not new; they were identified in the 1960's. Currently, there are medical treatments developed from stem cells that are treating a variety of diseases and illnesses being tested with human volunteers.

As you know, stem cells have been collected from a variety of places -most commonly umbilical cord blood. So what does this have to do with teeth? The National Institute of Health has just released a study showing there are strong stem cells in teeth. This discovery will give everyone the ability to save their own stem cells for the future and for future medical treatments as they are developed.

Currently there are many stem cell storage options available. If you want or need further information, please call our office at 561-394-9000, we would be happy to help you with obtaining it. If you have not had a complete dental examination within the last year, please call our office to arrange an appointment!

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.