Japanese dentists are testing a breakthrough drug that could allow people with missing teeth to grow new ones, reducing the need for dentures and implants.
Dormant buds of a third set of teeth exist beneath human gums, explains Masaru Takahashi, director of oral surgery at Kitano Hospital, Osaka Institute of Medical Research. This challenges the traditional idea that humans, like most other mammals, grow only two sets of teeth throughout their lives.
Takahashi’s team began clinical trials at Kyoto University Hospital, administering the experimental drug to adult subjects. The researchers believe the drug could stimulate the growth of these hidden teeth.
“This is a completely new technology,” Takahashi said, highlighting the advantages of restoring natural teeth.
Studies in mice and ferrets have shown that blocking a protein called USAG-1 can trigger the development of a third set of teeth. The researchers even published lab photos of tooth regeneration in animals as evidence of the drug’s potential.
Last year, Takahashi’s team noted that their antibody treatment of mice was effective in tooth regeneration, calling it a potential breakthrough in addressing human dental abnormalities.
Human tooth regeneration has long been a source of inspiration for scientists. The Oral Health Team reports that researchers at the University of Manitoba are studying the tooth regeneration capabilities of fish with the goal of applying these findings to humans.
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