Biomimetics in dentistry, review and recent update

Abstract

Jack Steele in 1960 coined the word ‘BIONICS’ which means taking ideas from nature. Biomimetics is defined as the study of the formation, structure or function of biologically produced substances and techniques especially for the purpose of synthesizing similar products by artificial mechanisms which mimic natural ones. It can be categorised as

1. Tissue engineering triad which includes stem cell, scaffold ,signalling molecule.
2. Enamel like      a)Invasive - Composites / ceramicsb)Non Invasive - CCP ACP / Novamin

c)Future-Self assembling peptides

3.         Dentin like

1. Root end filling materials : PRP / DFDBA
2. Regenerative endodontics :          Revascularization

Stem Cell TherapyPulp Implantation

Scaffold Implantation3-D Cell PrintingGene Therapy Bio Engineered Tooth   

I. STEM CELLS: Three approaches are being used for creation of new tissues by mimicking natural ones, which form the  tissue engineering triad. The concept of using stem cells for dental tissue engineering was explored by Paul Sharpe & associates. Three important stem cells are found to be associated with dental pulp. They are,