STEM CELLS IN ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY: CURRENT CONCEPTS AND RECENT ADVANCES

Stem cells are characterized by self-renewal and the capacity to differentiate into specialized cell types, making them important candidates for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. This narrative review summarizes the classification, sources, biological characteristics, storage and transport considerations, marker-based characterization, scaffold systems, safety considerations, and applications of stem cells in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Embryonic, adult, and induced pluripotent stem cells are considered, with particular attention to mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow, adipose tissue, dental pulp, periodontal ligament, apical papilla, dental follicle, and exfoliated deciduous teeth. The reviewed literature describes experimental and early clinical applications in dentin and pulp regeneration, periodontal regeneration, craniofacial bone repair, soft-tissue reconstruction, and tissue-engineered tooth and temporomandibular joint constructs. Stem cell-based regeneration commonly relies on coordinated interactions among cells, scaffolds, growth factors, and the extracellular microenvironment. Important translational challenges include immunological compatibility, tumorigenicity, controlled differentiation, quality control, standardization, scalability, regulatory requirements, and cost. Current developments in biomimetic scaffolds, three-dimensional bioprinting, gene editing, and precision approaches may further expand regenerative applications. However, the source literature also emphasizes the need for continued experimental and clinical investigation before widespread clinical implementation in oral and maxillofacial surgery.