Growing a Third Set of Teeth: How Japan's Groundbreaking Drug Could Revolutionize Dentistry

Imagine losing a tooth and simply growing a new one. It sounds like science fiction, right? But right now, at Kyoto University Hospital in Japan, this futuristic idea is being tested in human trials. A pioneering Japanese research team has developed a drug designed to regenerate a third set of human teeth, a groundbreaking solution that could drastically change dental care worldwide.[1]

The Science Behind Tooth Regeneration

Humans naturally grow two sets of teeth—baby teeth and adult teeth. But unlike sharks or reptiles, our bodies usually stop there. Yet scientists discovered something intriguing: humans possess dormant tooth buds capable of producing a third set, kept inactive by a protein called USAG-1. This protein suppresses key biological signals responsible for tooth formation, effectively acting as a natural 'stop sign' to further tooth growth.[2]

Meet the Game-Changer: TRG-035

The new drug, known as TRG-035, targets and neutralizes the USAG-1 protein, allowing those dormant tooth buds to reactivate. Developed by Dr. Katsu Takahashi and his team in collaboration with Kyoto University, this treatment is delivered via intravenous injection. It’s already shown impressive results in animal trials, where mice and ferrets successfully grew new, fully functional teeth without adverse effects.[3]

From Labs to Real-Life Smiles: Human Trials Begin

In October 2024, Kyoto University Hospital commenced Phase 1 human trials involving 30 healthy adults aged 30 to 64, each missing at least one tooth. The primary goal is to establish the drug’s safety profile in humans. If successful, Phase 2 will explore efficacy in children suffering from congenital tooth agenesis, a condition leaving them born without multiple teeth.[4]

"A Dental Miracle": Potential Impact and Benefits

Who stands to gain the most? Virtually anyone dealing with tooth loss—from children born with missing teeth to elderly denture wearers. Imagine replacing uncomfortable dentures or invasive dental implants with your own naturally regrown teeth. Dr. Takahashi emphasizes the transformative potential, "We want to help those who suffer from tooth loss. Expectations for tooth regrowth are incredibly high."[5]

Expert Opinions: Excitement with a Dose of Caution

Dental professionals around the globe express cautious optimism. Professor Angray Kang from Queen Mary University of London calls it "exciting and worth pursuing," but reminds us it's "not a short sprint, but back-to-back ultra-marathons."[6] Dr. Chengfei Zhang highlights the innovation’s revolutionary and somewhat controversial nature, emphasizing rigorous testing to ensure broad applicability.[7]

Regulatory and Ethical Considerations

Before widespread availability, TRG-035 faces rigorous global regulatory evaluations, particularly regarding long-term safety, ethical application, and affordability. Ensuring equitable access and managing public expectations responsibly will be critical steps moving forward.[8]

Looking Ahead: When Could This Become Reality?

If trials proceed smoothly, developers target availability around 2030. As dental science advances toward regenerative medicine, this breakthrough may usher in a new era of treatments—repairing not just teeth, but potentially other tissues and organs as well.[9]

At Crown and Denture Solutions, we closely follow innovations like TRG-035. Stay tuned with us for updates on how this revolutionary science progresses, bringing hope for healthier, happier smiles everywhere.

Sources:

1. Kyoto University Press Releases

2. Science Advances (2021)

3. Popular Mechanics (2025)

4. The Japan Times (2024)

5. Kyoto University Press Releases

6. France24 (2024)

7. ScienceAlert (2024)

8. The Japan Times (2024)

9. Popular Mechanics (2025)