Where will the genome lead us? Dentistry in the 21st century.

BACKGROUND

Recent announcements of the deciphering and analysis of the human genome signal the inception of a new era of gene-based medicine. During the 21st century, patient treatment will be transformed and dentistry will be affected profoundly.

METHODS

The author explains the importance of the decoding of the genome and how--based on this now completely depicted molecular structure--genes build, maintain and control all the biological functions of humans and all other living organisms. The potential application of this knowledge to the practice of dentistry is addressed, as well as the ethical, legal and moral challenges to the profession engendered by this new technology.

CONCLUSION

During the next several decades, many of the current materials and methods will be abandoned in favor of emerging bioengineered technologies, genetically programmed for the prevention and treatment of oral disease as well as for the repair of damaged dental tissues.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

The development and implementation of these innovative dental therapies will require intensive education of current practitioners. Considerable restructuring of dental school curricula will need to take place, and the emergence of a new dental specialty is anticipated.