Growing New Teeth: The Science of Tooth Regeneration
Dr Tristan Tinn
Founder & Clinical Director
Photo: Unsplash
Sharks do it. Crocodiles do it. Many reptiles can regrow lost teeth throughout their lives. So why can't we? The answer might not be "never." Scientists are making fascinating progress towards tooth regeneration.
Key Takeaways
- •Human tooth regeneration is not yet possible, but research is progressing rapidly
- •Japanese scientists are trialling a drug that blocks USAG-1, a protein that inhibits tooth growth
- •Animal studies have successfully grown new teeth by suppressing this protein
- •Human clinical trials began in 2024 for patients with congenital tooth absence
- •Widespread availability is still likely years or decades away
- •Until then, dental implants, bridges, and dentures remain the best replacement options
Why Can't Humans Regrow Teeth?
Humans actually start with the ability to grow teeth – we just lose it after our adult teeth come in. Unlike sharks, whose teeth are continuously replaced throughout life, human teeth develop from specialised cells that become inactive once permanent teeth are formed.
The genetic instructions for tooth development still exist in our DNA. The challenge is figuring out how to reactivate them.
Current Research Approaches
Stem Cell Research
Scientists have identified stem cells in dental pulp and other tissues that can potentially differentiate into the cells that form teeth. Research has successfully grown tooth-like structures in laboratory settings using these cells.
Gene Therapy
Researchers have identified key genes involved in tooth development. In 2024, Japanese scientists announced plans to trial a drug that blocks a protein (USAG-1) that inhibits tooth growth. Early animal studies showed mice could grow new teeth when this protein was suppressed.
Bioengineered Teeth
Another approach involves creating "tooth germs" – the early structures that develop into teeth – in the lab and implanting them. This has worked in animal models, with bioengineered teeth successfully integrating and functioning normally.
When Might This Be Available?
While the science is promising, we're still years (likely decades) away from regrowing teeth being a routine treatment. Current trials are focusing on people with congenital tooth absence rather than replacing teeth lost to decay or injury.
The good news? Even if tooth regeneration remains futuristic, dental implants and other replacements continue to improve, offering excellent solutions for missing teeth today.
In the meantime: The best strategy is prevention. Take care of the teeth you have. They need to last until science catches up with our dreams of regeneration.
Current Options for Replacing Missing Teeth
While we wait for tooth regeneration to become reality, there are excellent options available today. Dental implants are considered the gold standard, as they prevent bone loss and can last a lifetime. Dental bridges and dentures are effective and more affordable alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can humans regrow teeth right now?
Not yet. While research is advancing rapidly and early clinical trials are underway, routine tooth regeneration for the general public is still years or decades away.
What is the USAG-1 tooth drug?
USAG-1 is a protein that suppresses tooth growth in humans. Japanese researchers developed an antibody that blocks this protein. In animal studies, mice given this antibody grew new teeth. Human clinical trials began in 2024 for patients born without certain teeth.
Can stem cells grow new teeth?
Stem cells from dental pulp can potentially develop into tooth-forming cells. Researchers have grown tooth-like structures in labs. But growing a fully functional tooth with roots, nerves, and blood supply that integrates into the jawbone has not yet been achieved in humans.
When will tooth regeneration be available?
The first human trials began in 2024 in Japan, targeting patients with congenital tooth absence. Broader applications could follow if successful, but widespread availability is unlikely before the 2030s at the earliest.
What are the best tooth replacement options available now?
Dental implants (£2,000 to £3,500) are considered the gold standard. Bridges (£500 to £1,500) and dentures (£300 to £800+) are effective and more affordable alternatives.
Do sharks really keep growing new teeth?
Yes. Sharks grow thousands of teeth in their lifetime, continuously replacing them. They have multiple rows, with new ones developing behind the current set. Understanding this mechanism is a key part of tooth regeneration research.
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Sources
- • Nature – Tooth regeneration research
- • Science Advances – USAG-1 antibody studies
Last reviewed on 15 April 2026 by Dr Tristan Tinn