Oh Grow Some Teeth
Sometimes people say grow a spine. Did you know they can now say grow some teeth? That is because researchers in Japan have actually found a way to grow teeth. Right in place in your gums. This is exciting but very preliminary. Imagine, instead of having to endure dentures, or have a titanium screw surgically implanted in your jaw, you could simply grow a new tooth where one is missing or decayed out! This is the stuff of science fiction. But, these days, in 2026, science fiction is happening. Now. Not tomorrow.
Here are the facts:
• In recent years, Japanese researchers have moved beyond experiments in animals and begun human clinical trials for a drug aimed at stimulating the natural regrowth of teeth.
• The research is largely being conducted through teams at Kyoto University Hospital and the Medical Research Institute Kitano Hospital in Osaka, Japan, led by Dr. Katsu Takahashi and collaborators.
• The drug — often referred to in research as TRG-035 — works by targeting a protein called USAG-1 that normally suppresses tooth development. By blocking this protein, scientists hope to “reactivate” dormant tooth-forming cells in the gums and jaw.
• Early studies in mice and ferrets showed that inhibiting USAG-1 can indeed lead to the formation of new teeth, providing the groundwork for human trials.
• Human trials began around 2024–2025, initially focusing on adults missing one or more teeth to assess safety and proper dosage.
• While the treatment is very much experimental, scientists hopeful that, if trials go well and regulatory approvals are secured, this approach could become a real clinical option — perhaps as soon as the late 2020s or early 2030s.
So those are the facts around this discovery. As is often the case with discoveries we might not see practical applications for years, however, the writing is on the wall. We are advancing, and at an almost unbelievable pace. Soon your dentist may be able to just grow you a new tooth. At ProDentalFx we look forward to that day — and the future — with hope.
(Sources: Concierge Dental, Dentistry Today, ADA)
