Humans usually have all their baby teeth by age 3, and then by 6-7 years old, the adult teeth start to come in. These teeth are meant to serve you your whole life, but many adults lose at least a few teeth because of gum disease, dental trauma, or other oral health issues. If you lose any adult teeth, can they grow back? New research suggests it might be possible!
Antibodies Could Be Key to New Tooth Growth
Research into growing new teeth is part of regenerative medicine, which includes figuring out how to grow new organs. Antibodies play a big role in this field. At Kyoto University and the University of Fukui in Japan, researchers used an antibody to suppress a certain gene. The result? It stimulated tooth growth in mice. In fact, just one administration of the antibody regenerated a whole tooth! It worked in ferrets, as well, which have similar dental patterns to humans.
Why Does This Research Matter?
When you lose permanent teeth, it has a big effect on your life. Your jaw becomes weaker, it can be harder to chew certain foods, and it can change how you speak. Many people also become self-conscious about their smiles. The research from Japan is the first evidence that monoclonal antibodies can affect tooth regeneration. In the future, this could mean people have an alternative to artificial tooth restorations!
Until We Can Regrow Teeth, Come to Hillstream Dental for Restorative Services!
We’re probably many years away from regrowing a third set of teeth. Until then, we have great restoration options at our Rochester Hills and St. Clair Shores offices. Dentures and dental implants each have their pros and cons. What works best depends on your specific case. Come in for a consultation with one of our dentists! We will help you select the best option to restore your smile.
