The present invention relates to compositions and methods utilizing hair follicle derived Non-Bulbar Dermal Sheath cells for use in the treatment of dental-related conditions, including the treatment of gingivitis. Briefly stated, the present invention provides compositions and methods for treating or preventing a wide variety of conditions associated with the oral cavity, including for example, periodontal disease and a variety of diseases or injuries associated with the gingiva utilizing hair follicle derived Non-Bulbar Dermal Sheath (“NDBS”) cells. Within one aspect of the invention methods are provided for isolating NBDS cells, comprising the steps of: preparing vital hair and cleaving the hair.