Journal of endodontics
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Journal of endodontics · Sep 2014
Case ReportsManaging endodontic patients with severe gag reflex by glossopharyngeal nerve block technique.
Gagging is a protective reflex, but when the gag reflex becomes abnormally active, it poses a difficulty for the dentist because it hinders all aspects of dental procedures including diagnosis, radiography, and any form of active procedure. ⋯ The glossopharyngeal nerve block technique is a relatively safe, simple, and easy to master technique as compared with general anesthesia for treating a patient with an exaggerated gag reflex. The glossopharyngeal nerve block technique may be used in dental procedures in patients with an exaggerated gag reflex or when performing procedures in the posterior aspect of the mouth. Due caution should be exercised to prevent inadvertent intravascular administration of local anesthetic when using this procedure.
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Journal of endodontics · Sep 2014
Hypoxia modulates the differentiation potential of stem cells of the apical papilla.
Stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP) are a population of mesenchymal stem cells likely involved in regenerative endodontic procedures and have potential use as therapeutic agents in other tissues. In these situations, SCAP are exposed to hypoxic conditions either within a root canal devoid of an adequate blood supply or in a scaffold material immediately after implantation. However, the effect of hypoxia on SCAP proliferation and differentiation is largely unknown. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of hypoxia on the fate of SCAP. ⋯ This study shows that hypoxia induces spontaneous differentiation of SCAP into osteogenic and neurogenic lineages while maintaining the release of the proangiogenic factor VEGFa. This highlights the potential of SCAP to promote pulp-dentin regeneration. Moreover, SCAP may represent potential therapeutic agents for neurodegenerative conditions because of their robust differentiation potential.