Here’s the latest verified science‑based information on the claim that “doctors in Japan created a drug that lets humans grow a third set of teeth” — including what’s real, what it means, and where the research stands as of early 2026:
What the scientific research actually is
✅ There is a drug in development in Japan aimed at regrowing human teeth
Researchers in Japan — led by Dr. Katsu Takahashi and collaborators at Kitano Hospital and Kyoto University Hospital — have developed a drug known as TRG‑035 (also nicknamed a “tooth‑growing” or 歯生え薬 / “hae‑yaku” in Japanese) that is designed to trigger the body’s natural potential to form extra teeth. (LinkedIn)
This drug works by blocking a specific protein called USAG‑1 which normally suppresses growth of tooth buds — the embryonic tissue that forms teeth. By neutralizing USAG‑1, the drug removes that brake, allowing dormant buds to potentially develop into new teeth. (LinkedIn)
Why scientists think humans could grow a third set of teeth
🦷 Humans may have dormant “tooth buds”
Normally humans grow only:
- Baby (primary) teeth and
- Permanent (adult) teeth — then no more.
But research shows that humans may still carry vestigial buds for a third generation of teeth that never normally develop. By targeting the inhibitory protein (USAG‑1), researchers hope these buds can be reactivated. (Popular Mechanics)
This idea comes from studies in animals (mice, ferrets) where neutralizing USAG‑1 led to extra teeth growing — suggesting mammals may have latent regenerative potential. (LinkedIn)
Human clinical trials are happening now
📌 Yes — human trials have begun
In late 2024, Kyoto University Hospital started the first human Phase 1 clinical trial of TRG‑035. The initial trial is focused on evaluating the safety of the drug in adults (ages ~30‑64) who are missing at least one tooth. (LinkedIn)
These trials do not yet guarantee tooth regrowth — they’re the first step to see whether the drug can safely be given to humans.
What this doesn’t mean yet
❌ It’s not yet a proven treatment
- The drug is still in clinical trials, mostly to test safety right now. (LinkedIn)
- It is not yet approved for general use (expected availability, if successful, might be around 2030 or later). (The Times of India)
- We do not yet have widespread proof that it can regrow a whole set of teeth in ordinary adults. So widespread claims that “you can grow a full third set of teeth today” are premature.
How this could change dentistry (if proven)
This research aims to offer an alternative to:
✔ Dentures
✔ Dental implants
by letting the body regrow its own natural teeth — potentially transforming dental care, especially for those with severe tooth loss or congenital tooth absence. (Popular Mechanics)
Summary
| Claim | Status |
|---|---|
| A drug exists that can make humans grow a third set of teeth today | ❌ Not yet proven/available |
| A Japanese team has developed a tooth‑regrowth drug | ✅ True; TRG‑035 is in development |
| Human trials are underway | ✅ Yes — early Phase 1 trials started |
| Drug is approved & available everywhere | ❌ Not yet (target ~2030) |
| Theory: humans have dormant tooth‑forming potential | Supported by research |
If you want, I can explain how the USAG‑1 protein works and why blocking it might unlock tooth regeneration in plain language — just let me know!