For generations, tooth loss refers to the lifespan of a filling, implant, or denture. But now, scientists in Japan and the UK are re-growing the sharp, human teeth of a medical breakthrough. Researchers from both countries have made great strides that could make traditional dental prostheses obsolete. The outlook for natural, biological dental replacements may no longer belong to science fiction.
Japanese Injection Fluid
In Japan, a team from Kyoto University and Kitano Hospital has developed a drug that stimulates the body and raises new teeth. Treatment usually works by inhibiting a gene known as USAG-1, which prevents additional teeth from being formed.
Preclinical studies in mice, ferrets and dogs have shown that blocking this gene will lead to full teeth growing in enamel, dentin and functional roots. In 2024, the team began clinical trials in humans on adults who lost at least one tooth.
“We aim for treatment that may benefit people suffering from tooth loss due to injuries, illnesses, or congenital conditions,” the Prime Minister said. Treatments may become available by 2030 if the trial continues to show positive results.
King’s College cultivates “Bioteeth”
Meanwhile, in London, King’s College scientists explored another path. Researchers led by Professor Paul Sharpe have developed methods for growing dental structures in the lab using stem cell-based tissue engineering.
By combining adult gingival cells in the lab with teeth-inducing cells, they grew tooth-like structures in mice. The long-term goal is to produce an entire functional human tooth that can be implanted in the patient’s jaw.
Although this approach is still in the preclinical stage, it offers a highly personalized solution, especially for patients with complex dental injuries or those who are unable to benefit from traditional implants.
Changes in Dentistry
Both teams are working to address the challenge of expanding treatment for widespread use. The Japanese team plans to extend the trial to children with congenital teeth, which are in none of the adult teeth. Meanwhile, the UK team is improving the process to ensure the safe use of human stem cells in regenerative dentistry.
Experts say the impact is enormous. “We are looking at the real possibilities of re-growing teeth from our cells. We are just working on biology, not artificial materials, prosthetics,” Sharp said.
Questions remain about cost, accessibility and regulatory approval, but the message from the lab is clear. Natural teeth regeneration is no longer a dream.
