While our skin cells regenerate and our nails and hair grow continuously, our teeth are another matter. We each get two sets – our milk, or ‘baby’ teeth come in first and then our adult teeth follow on as we get a bit older. Then that is it – for the rest of our life. Who remembers their parents, caregivers or dentist warning them as a child that they must take care of their adult teeth because they won’t get another set? We’re guessing most people reading this, if not everyone.
Current methods of dealing with broken or lost teeth involve surgical procedures such as crowns, implants, bridges and dentures – all artificial options. However, thanks to scientific advancements, that could well be about to change. Several studies have been done around the possibility of regrowing natural dental materials. Methods like stem cells and mineral regeneration have been tried and tested, with varying degrees of success. Teeth grown naturally in the gum using whichever method is most effective can integrate into the jaw far more easily than implants and other artificial solutions. The risk of rejection by the body is lower, and the resultant teeth would be stronger and longer-lasting.
RNA and USAG-1
RNA, or ribonucleic acid to give it its full name, has been proven to administer antibodies against a molecule that inhibits bone growth proteins in mammals – USAG-1.
We need USAG-1 in our bodies, as that is what prevents tooth germs from developing into full teeth and overcrowding our mouth. It regulates the number of adult teeth we have. However, scientists in Osaka, Japan are using the RNA approach to develop a method of growing full teeth from undeveloped tooth ‘buds’. The technique could be especially effective for patients who have genetic conditions that affect tooth growth, as well as those with gum diseases or oral injuries that have resulted in a dental loss. While this has not yet been tested on humans, early results in smaller mammals like ferrets and mice look promising. You can read the report from a 2021 trial here: Local application of Usag-1 siRNA can promote tooth regeneration in Runx2-deficient mice | Scientific Reports
Stem cell regrowth
Stem cell research has already taken place around treating such issues as inflammation, pulpitis and gum disease. Again, early signs that stem cells could one day form part of an effective, safe treatment for human tooth regrowth are positive. Issues that scientists have encountered include host compatibility. If this is not 100% exact, the host’s immune system could attack the unfamiliar stem cells and negate the effects of the treatment. Also, while animal dentine has been seen to regrow using stem cell techniques, the structure is not the same as humans. So, taking the final step towards human stem cell dental regeneration is not likely to happen for a while yet.
Current solutions for missing teeth
While regrowing human teeth may still be several year away from becoming a reality, there is still plenty that dentists and dental implant surgeons can do to restore your smile and improve the health of your mouth. Fillings and crowns can help repair broken teeth or cavities and leave the treated tooth looking natural. Dental implants are another option for a missing tooth or teeth than is aesthetically pleasing and long lasting. Dental bridge and dentures close the gaps in areas where multiple teeth have been lost and restore natural chewing, biting and smiling functions. If you are affected by tooth loss, please speak to your dentist today to find out what can be done to restore your oral health, confidence and smile.