Regrow Teeth

It is estimated that an average American might lose about 8 of his teeth by the time he reaches 50. Cavities are the main culprit for the loss of teeth. In that case, false teeth like dentures or dental implants are the only options to replace the lost teeth. While dentures erode the underlying bone, tooth implants can come off after a few years of use. Thus, both these options are definitely not ideal and suitable in the long run. But, what if you could just regrow teeth naturally? Obviously, your own natural teeth can be the best replacement for the lost teeth. Although, the idea of regrowing teeth does sound exhilarating, you will have to wait for several years before the technology is ready for practical implementation. Till then, let us get acquainted with this new revolutionizing technology.

How to Regrow Teeth

There are several possible methods of regrowing teeth naturally. Unfortunately, all these technologies are still in their infancy. Several approaches are adopted to regrow teeth in humans. There are various studies and researches going on in various parts of the world, all attempting to regrow a full size tooth. Although, most experiments have yielded satisfactory results, it will be some time before these technologies are ready to be used on humans. Given below are some of the major techniques of regrowing teeth.

Gene Alteration
All of us lose our milk teeth in childhood and grow a permanent set of teeth. However, if you lose any of these permanent teeth, you cannot grow back the lost teeth in your entire life (although, incidences of people regrowing their teeth after completing 100 years of age have been reported!). It has been found that a gene present in human beings prevents formation of additional teeth. In the absence of this gene, we all can develop backup teeth like the ones shark has got! A study showed that mice who lacked this gene grew an extra tooth next to their first molar. Many non mammals develop backup teeth, mostly due to the absence of this gene. Thus, this gene can be altered so that humans can regrow backup teeth. However, the implications of altering this gene are yet to be studied. Hence, it would be wrong to assume that this technique may come into practice in near future.

Stem Cells
Stem cells are the most talked about thing in genetic engineering field these days. Stem cells can be manipulated to create almost any organ in human beings. The technique for regrowing teeth in humans makes use of stem cells from hair, skin or any other tissue. These stem cells can be manipulated with right molecular information, so as to create the desired tissue. These cells are then transplanted back in the same person, so as to counter minimal rejection issues. After the cells have been transplanted at the desired site or cavity, they can be left alone to grow into full sized teeth. Stem cells from bone marrow and dental gums are considered most appropriate for such kind of experiments. However, the process of extraction of stem cells from bone marrow is highly painful. Attempts are being made to facilitate easy and painless extraction of stem cells. Needless to say, we are unlikely to see its practical applications anytime soon.

Ultrasound Technology
This is an innovative yet simple technique of teeth regrowth. In this technique, an ultrasound device is used to send ultrasound pulses in and around the jaw. These pulses stimulate the jaw and gums to repair and regrow the affected or lost tooth. This technique works on the principles of massage. This seems to be the only technique of teeth regrowing that has a potential to hit markets in near future.

You will be relieved of dentures and tooth implants if any of the above mentioned technologies to regrow teeth mature enough, so as to be implemented commercially.