Stem cells: A new paradigm in periodontal regeneration

Stem cells are a unique type of cell that forms the basis of the development, growth and survival of a living organism. Though the term is often used to describe controversial embryonic stem cells, there are many different types of stem cells, classified by their original location and/or method of formation. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that go on developing into any of more than 200 type of cells that adult Human body hold. Now a days stem cells have significant use in regenerative periodontal therapy. Recently, reports have begun to emerge demonstrating that populations of adult stem cells reside in the periodontal ligament of humans and other animals. This opens the way for new cell-based therapies for periodontal regeneration.This review provides an overview of adult human stem cells and their potential use in periodontal regeneration.