Instead of tooth implants, medical scientists have provided a new and natural option to help patients in treating with tooth loss. According to the National Taiwan University Hospital's experiments, pigs that received dental stem cell implantation have grown new teeth and the technology is expected to benefit humans in the near future.

A team of medical researchers at National Taiwan University Hospital recently succeeded in growing deciduous teeth stem cells on pigs.

Three weeks after the cells were implanted into toothless areas of pigs' oral cavities, the pigs grew new teeth. The teeth measured 1 centimeter by 0.5 centimeters by 0.5 centimeters, are similar in appearance to other teeth, and have tooth pulp and tooth enamel.

Researchers are hoping that the stem cells can be directly injected into the root of teeth to restore gum tissue in patients with advanced periodontitis.

While the pig teeth have grown well, researchers are uncertain that human central incisor cells will grow central incisors, and canine teeth will grow canines.

Doctors also say that the cost of participating in clinical trials will likely be several times higher than getting tooth implants.

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