Most of us think that once a tooth is lost, it’s gone forever; dentures or implants are the only real solutions. But recent scientific breakthroughs show that natural tooth regeneration might be possible within our lifetimes.
What’s New in the Science:
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Researchers in Japan have begun human trials (as of late 2024) for a drug called TRG-035 (or related monoclonal antibody therapies) that targets the protein USAG-1, which normally inhibits tooth development. By blocking USAG-1, the drug may “wake up” dormant tooth buds or allow new teeth to form.
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Preclinical tests in animals (mice, ferrets) showed successful tooth growth when USAG-1 was suppressed. These new teeth grew roots and had some similar structure to natural teeth.
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These early human trials are mostly about safety, testing the drug in adults missing at least one tooth, but if successful, the dream is to move toward treating congenital tooth agenesis (missing teeth from birth).
What We Don’t Know Yet:
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Will regenerated teeth have the same durability (chewing ability, strength, enamel hardness) as natural teeth or implants?
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Can we control where the tooth grows (correct position, shape)?
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What about side effects, long-term safety and cost? New treatments like this often come with high price tags, especially initially.
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Ethical and regulatory clearance will take time. We are still several years away (some projections say around 2030) before such therapies might become realistically available to the public.
What would you prefer - a regrown tooth over an implant if both were equally safe and affordable? What concerns would you have?
MBH/AB