Application of Bioreactors in Dental and Oral Tissue Engineering

Abstract

Increased rate of craniofacial trauma necessitates development of novel procedures for oral and dental tissue regeneration. Bioreactors are systems designed to prepare biologically active environments, homogenous distribution of cells, and chemical factors, recapitulating the mechanical and electrical stimulation to make the fully functional engineered tissues according to biological cues of each kind of tissue. In this chapter, we focus on the key principles required for bioreactor designing used in oral and dental tissue engineering and discuss the structural, mechanical, and electrical properties in the microenvironment of dental and oral tissues. The different kinds of bioreactors with their different designs are described, and the bioreactors used in engineering of different dental and oral tissues are explained in detail. By reviewing the current bioreactors used in oral and dental regeneration, this chapter aims to intensify the future bioreactor-based oral and dental tissue engineering that may function by applying appropriate physical and mechanical stimulation.