Cell free/homing in regenerative endodontics – a novel treatment strategy for management of traumatized anterior teeth open apices

“Regenerative Endodontics” has revolutionized as an alternative, innovative, biologically based- treatment strategy for the treatment of traumatized necrotic young permanent anterior teeth with open apex representing a ‘paradigm shift’ in conventional root canal procedure. Gradually this treatment approach modified in various strategies including different scaffolds, growth factors, medicaments and stem cells. “Cell free or homing” is a recent novel promising technique based on stem cells belonging to host and their potential to regenerate functional pulp-dentin tissue complex and revolutionized the arena of regenerative endodontics. Extensive review of endodontic literature revealed paucity of literature pertaining to this new era of endodontics. Therefore, the aim of this research paper is to enlighten the domain of ‘cell homing’ in regenerative endodontics highlighting its mechanism, principle, advantages, clinical applications, limitations and challenges including future perspectives. The current article also helps to address the fact that the transition from "damaged to healing" utilising cell homing treatment strategy is not just a possibility, it is the inevitable future of regenerative endodontics in dental health science.