Dr Ken Ho

06/10/2025

Another tech device by Aussie ingenuity with huge potential.

24/09/2025

If you smooch your pooch, be aware of your oral hygiene.

16/09/2025

A legend with a classic Hollywood smile. Rest in Peace.

Robert Redford has died at 89 years old.

The film icon starred in classic films such as "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" and "All the President's Men," won an Oscar for directing “Ordinary People” and founded the Sundance Film Institute, among other career highlights. Read more here: https://variety.com/2025/film/news/robert-redford-dead-all-the-presidents-men-1236520246/

16/09/2025

Now this should be fun. 🤩

Recent research in Japan has brought renewed attention to the possibility that humans may possess a dormant “third dentition” — a hidden set of tooth buds with the potential to regrow a complete new set of teeth. Traditionally, dentistry has recognized only two stages of natural dentition: the primary (deciduous) teeth and the permanent adult teeth. However, studies led by Dr. Katsu Takahashi and colleagues at Kitano Hospital and Kyoto University have identified latent tooth buds that, under certain genetic and molecular conditions, may be reactivated.

Laboratory and preclinical studies have shown that blocking the gene USAG-1, which suppresses tooth growth, can stimulate the development of new teeth in animal models such as mice and ferrets. In 2023, Takahashi’s team announced plans for human clinical trials of an antibody-based drug designed to inhibit USAG-1 and awaken these dormant buds. Early results in animal studies demonstrated successful tooth regeneration, raising the prospect that similar outcomes may be achievable in humans.

If confirmed, this line of research could fundamentally transform dentistry. Instead of relying on dentures, implants, or artificial restorations, patients might one day regenerate a complete new set of natural teeth. What was once considered speculative is rapidly progressing toward clinical reality, offering hope for millions living with tooth loss.