Scientists Test Pill That Could Help Humans Grow New Teeth
Tooth Regeneration Pill Sparks Hope for Dentistry
A revolutionary medical trial in Japan is exploring whether humans can regrow missing teeth using a pill. The experimental drug, known as TRG‑035, is being tested at Kyoto University Hospital in collaboration with biotech startup Toregem BioPharma.
Humans naturally grow two sets of teeth—baby and adult—but researchers believe the body contains dormant tooth buds that could be reactivated. TRG‑035 works by blocking a protein that normally prevents extra teeth from forming after adulthood. By silencing this “off‑switch,” scientists hope to unlock a hidden third set of teeth.
Early Human Trials
The first Phase I safety trial began in late 2024, involving 30 adult men missing at least one tooth. While participants are not expected to regrow teeth during this stage, the trial aims to confirm the drug’s safety before moving to younger patients.
Animal Studies Show Promise
The science behind TRG‑035 was first proven in mice, where removing the gene linked to the blocking protein led to extra teeth growth. Later experiments in ferrets showed that a single antibody injection could grow fully functional teeth without major side effects.
Next Steps
If safety results are positive, researchers plan to test the pill on children aged 2 to 7 born with missing teeth, especially those missing six or more teeth from birth. The ultimate goal is to make the treatment available by 2030, first for children and later for adults who lost teeth due to decay or injury.
Potential Impact
If successful, this breakthrough could transform dentistry by offering an alternative to dentures and dental implants. Regrowing natural teeth would improve chewing ability, nutrition, and overall quality of life, particularly for older adults.
Final Takeaway
The TRG‑035 pill represents a major leap in oral healthcare, with the potential to change how missing teeth are treated worldwide. While still in early stages, the research offers hope that future generations may never need dentures or implants, relying instead on their body’s ability to regrow teeth naturally.