Japanese researchers test drug to regrow teeth

Japanese dentists are testing a groundbreaking drug that could enable people to grow new teeth, offering a potential alternative to dentures and implants. Katsu Takahashi, head of oral surgery at Kitano Hospital in Osaka, leads the clinical trials at Kyoto University Hospital.

According to the researchers, the drug targets dormant buds of a third set of teeth hidden in human gums, using an antibody treatment to block the USAG-1 protein.

Initial trials focus on safety, involving adults missing at least one tooth. The team aims to help patients with a rare genetic condition causing severe tooth loss, with the drug possibly available by 2030.

Experts call the research innovative but warn animal test results may not fully translate to humans, highlighting that this technology could be life-changing, especially for Japan’s aging population.