Japan develops first medicine to regenerate teeth

Japan is getting closer and closer to achieving a feat considered impossible until recently: developing a medicine capable of regenerating new teeth in humans. The breakthrough, led by a team of scientists from Kyoto University Hospital, represents a revolution in dentistry and could transform the lives of millions of people around the world. According to the researchers, clinical trials in adults began in October 2024, focusing on individuals who have lost teeth due to trauma or periodontal disease. The second phase of testing, scheduled for August 2025, will be carried out on children who were born with dental agenesis — a genetic condition that prevents the development of some permanent teeth. The drug works by stimulating a specific protein responsible for tooth formation during pregnancy, reactivating this process in the adult body. According to the experts, the preliminary results are promising and indicate that the treatment could be commercially available by 2030. “Our goal is to offer a functional and natural solution for tooth loss. This is a breakthrough not only for dentistry, but for all regenerative medicine,” said Dr. Katsu Takahashi, head of the research team. Currently, the most common treatment for missing teeth is dentures and implants. However, this new drug represents an innovative alternative, allowing the body to grow new teeth, complete with roots, pulp and enamel.

The scientific world is closely following the progress of the Japanese project, which could change the course of global oral health forever.