British scientists pioneer the future with lab‑grown human teeth
British scientists have successfully grown a human tooth in a laboratory, which could revolutionize dentistry. However, the practical application of this technology will still take many years to be realized.
Researchers from King’s College London and Imperial College London have accomplished a groundbreaking achievement in the field of dentistry by growing a human tooth in laboratory conditions. According to BBC News, although this is a significant step forward, it will still be many years before these implants can replace natural teeth.
This new tooth regeneration technology is extraordinary and could revolutionize dentistry, claims Saoirse O’Toole of King’s College London, as cited by the Polish Press Agency.
Humans, unlike some animals, do not have the ability to regenerate teeth after losing them. In reptiles and fish, this process is possible due to the presence of stem cells, which in humans disappear after the transition from milk teeth to permanent ones. British researchers utilized human stem cells and a substance that allows communication between them, enabling the formation of a new tooth.
The future of dentistry, albeit distant
Currently, scientists are working on the possibility of replicating this process in a patient's mouth. Xuechen Zhang from King’s College London explains that one of the considered solutions is to grow the tooth in a laboratory and then implant it into a patient who requires such a procedure. An alternative solution is to introduce stem cells directly into the mouth, simulating the natural regeneration process.
Saoirse O’Toole from King’s College London emphasizes that although this technology is extraordinary, its integration into dental practice will still take many years. In the meantime, the specialist recommends maintaining proper oral hygiene and a healthy diet to avoid the necessity of such procedures.
