Using Wisdom Teeth as a Source of Stem Cells

Wisdom teeth removal is a common occurrence in the United States among teenagers. In fact, it is so common that many feel that it is a rite of passage. Many teens have impacted wisdom teeth removed between 17 and 21 years of age. Leading the advocacy for the removal of wisdom teeth in the United States is the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.

However, in other countries removal of wisdom teeth is not so common place. The British National Institute for Clinical Excellence does not recommend removing healthy impacted wisdom teeth as there is no medical scientific evidence to support a health benefit. A California dentist believes that two-thirds of the current wisdom teeth extractions in the United States are unnecessary. He also feels the current practice poses a significant public health hazard.

The controversy of extractions aside, there does exist common ground amongst wisdom teeth. A new study by a team of scientists from Japan has created human stem cells from the old tissue of a previously extracted wisdom tooth. It is believed by the team that wisdom teeth stem cells could be a viable alternative to the current debate of using human embryos as the source. This could potentially put an end to the moral debate that many individuals have on using human embryos for stem cells which requires the destruction of a human embryo.

Storing stem cells from wisdom teeth can be thought of as another opportunity. In the future stem cells could possibly cure diseases and other health problems. It is anticipated that research with the use of stem cells could one day cure a wide variety of diseases, such as cancer, Parkinson's disease, and spinal cord injuries. This is because a stem cell can be grown to replace parts of the body.

Thus it is important, if you have your wisdom teeth removed, to look into ways to save the wisdom teeth and more importantly the stem cells. It has been suggested that storing the stem cells can be possible through the use of freezer. Through this method, the stem cells can last for numerous years. The problem is that there are currently no ways to store these stem cells outside of your oral surgeon and your home. A new alternative may need to be determined such as a commercial facility to remedy this problem.

In the meantime, it is important to discuss with your oral surgeon and dentist your desire to save any stem cells from wisdom teeth you may have removed. This is because they may be important to your health in the future as research continues to advance. However, remember that with the wisdom teeth surgery there exists numerous complications and it is important to weigh both the benefits and the risks.