Alveolar Reconstruction Using Stem Cells in Patients with Cleft Lip and Palate: A Systematic Review

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from dental tissues have also been studied extensively recently due to their relatively easy availability. The researchers have been working on improving a method for regenerating alveolar bone in patients with cleft lip and palate utilizing mesenchymal stem cells isolated from human bone marrow (hBMSCs). A systematic literature review from 2010 to 2022 was performed using PubMed, Medline, and ScienceDirect databases. The keywords used were "cleft lip," "cleft palate," "and stem cells," and "alveolar reconstruction." In addition, the PRISMA flowchart was used to describe the selection process of searched articles. A total of 9 studies were included in this systematic review, out of which the majority revealed successful treatment of cleft lip and palate using various kinds of stem cells. Although various types of stem cells have shown encouraging outcomes regarding bone regeneration and the treatment of cleft lip and palate, the most effective was mesenchymal stem cells, followed by adipose stem cells.