As the prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA) continues to grow—especially among aging populations—medical science is turning to regenerative solutions that move beyond simply managing symptoms. One such innovation making waves is StemJEL, a novel therapeutic approach with the potential to regrow cartilage rather than relieve joint pain.
But what does this have to do with dentistry? More than you might think.
Understanding StemJEL: A New Frontier in Osteoarthritis Care
Dr. Embree from columbia university and her team developed StemJEL, a patented, injectable treatment derived from stem cell research. It activates the body’s progenitor cells to rebuild damaged cartilage—a promising alternative to joint replacement surgeries.
While this treatment is still under clinical review, early results have raised interest across medical disciplines, including dental medicine.
Why Osteoarthritis Matters to Dentists
Although osteoarthritis is often associated with knees and hips, it can also affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)—the hinge joint connecting your jaw to your skull. TMJ disorders linked to osteoarthritis can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and impaired function, all of which can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life.
"When patients come to us with TMJ discomfort or limitations in jaw movement, osteoarthritis is often part of the underlying cause," explains Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, a cosmetic and general dentist in Henderson, NV. "Innovations like StemJEL could one day transform how we approach TMJ treatment in dentistry."
Oral-Systemic Health: The Inflammation Connection
Dentistry and systemic health are increasingly viewed as intertwined. Osteoarthritis, like periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition. Chronic inflammation in one area of the body can influence others, including the oral cavity. This interconnectedness underscores the importance of dentists being aware and responsible for their patients' overall health.
Advanced treatments that reduce systemic inflammation—such as regenerative OA therapies—may indirectly support periodontal health, which is influenced by inflammatory markers in the bloodstream.
"The more we understand the role inflammation plays in osteoarthritis and gum disease, the clearer it becomes that comprehensive care needs to go beyond the mouth," adds Dr. Perrone.
Implications for TMJ and Dental Implant Planning
In addition to managing TMJ disorders, emerging therapies like StemJEL could influence:
- Implant planning in older adults
- If systemic joint health improves, patients may tolerate bone-related procedures more favorably.
- Patient discussions
- Dentists treating aging populations must know new medical treatments that may impact healing and mobility.
- Collaborative care
- As more patients undergo advanced OA treatments, interdisciplinary communication between medical and dental professionals becomes essential.
Staying Informed: The Dentist’s Role in the Systemic Care Model
While dentists are not prescribing OA treatments, they are in a prime position to observe and respond to changes in patient health. Regular check-ups provide a chance to detect signs of TMJ degeneration or inflammation that may coincide with broader musculoskeletal conditions. By staying informed about cutting-edge treatments like StemJEL, dentists can feel empowered to improve diagnostic insight, offer informed referrals to specialists, and customize care plans based on systemic conditions.
By staying informed about cutting-edge treatments like StemJEL, dentists can:
- Improve diagnostic insight
- Offer informed referrals to specialists
- Customize care plans based on systemic conditions
Conclusion: A New Era of Whole-Body Dentistry
As science advances with regenerative therapies like StemJEL, the dental profession must evolve alongside it. The future of patient care—especially for older adults—will rely on a holistic understanding of oral-systemic health.
"We’re entering an era where treating the mouth in isolation no longer makes sense," says Dr. Perrone. "Our role as dentists is expanding, and understanding innovations in medicine helps us serve our patients more effectively."
Dr. Marielaina Perrone is a respected general and cosmetic dentist in Henderson, NV, with over two decades of clinical experience. She specializes in advanced cosmetic procedures, implant dentistry, and managing medically complex patients with a focus on oral-systemic health connections. Her extensive experience and expertise in these areas make her a valuable source of information on the implications of osteoarthritis treatments on dentistry.