Scientists Find Gene To Grow Teeth

Researchers at Oregon State University have found a gene that could help grow teeth. A controlled laboratory experiment was performed on mice taking out the Ctip2 gene. They discovered that the mice developed teeth without enamel.

This finding is significant in the field of dentistry.

Researchers believe that this could lead to a means to grow stem cells for the teeth. Practical applications could be that as you grow older, you would no longer need dentures. Consider that over 50% of Americans 65 and over wear partial or full dentures.

Another possibility is that we would no longer need fillings and could repair tooth decay through artificial means. That could mean a more pleasant trip to the dentist without the thoughts of a dentist drill.