Research has shown that smiling boosts mood-enhancing hormones and reduces stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Some, however, are more cautious than most to fully show their pearly whites, or the lack thereof, when smiling. Whether it’s from a dental issue or an unfortunate accident, people who visibly have an incomplete set of dentures might not have the confidence to smile. A fake set of dentures might do the trick, but today, there may be a way to regrow teeth via medication, thanks to research being done in Japan.
Promising lab trial
The study, led by scientist Dr. Katsu Takahashi of the Medical Research Institute Kitano Hospital, aims to have a medication that could enable people to grow new teeth by 2030. Trials for teeth regrowth have begun, with treatments focusing on the protein USAG‑1, known to limit the growth and development of teeth. Tests were done initially on mice, and the team found that blocking this protein with medication allowed mice to grow extra teeth.
During the successful trial, the scientists have also discovered a third set of teeth available as buds that are already embedded in the human’s mouth. People with hyperdontia who might grow an extra tooth on one or both sides mostly exhibit this condition. While the condition represents a tiny percentage of 1-3% of all dental abnormalities, medication will hopefully help other people to grow the buds. This third set of teeth follows the primary or baby teeth and adult permanent teeth.
Future of dental health
A study across 19 countries found that, on average, 19% of the population, that’s one in five people, wear some form of denture. Wearing dentures requires an adjustment period and may be uncomfortable at times. When not properly fitted, they tend to fall out while eating or speaking. Dentures also require thorough cleaning to avoid the buildup of bacteria and cause further dental damage.
The possibility of regenerating permanent teeth presents a breakthrough in dental health and medicine. It offers hope for people who have permanently lost their teeth through accidents, illnesses, or genetic disorders. With the wave of successful trials, the future for brighter and healthier smiles seems to be on the horizon.
Photo credit: The feature image is symbolic and has been done by Diana Polekhina.
