Can teeth regenerate?

Oct 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

In general, whether teeth can regenerate depends on age and tooth type. In children, when primary (baby) teeth fall out, permanent teeth will naturally grow in their place. However, if adult teeth are lost due to shedding, decay, or injury, they cannot naturally regenerate. It is important to protect teeth through daily care, including brushing teeth morning and night, using dental floss to clean between teeth, and having regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings.

In general, whether teeth can regenerate depends on age and tooth type. In children, when deciduous (baby) teeth fall out naturally, permanent teeth will grow in their place. However, if adult teeth are lost due to decay, trauma, or injury, they cannot naturally regenerate. The details are as follows:

For children in the stage of primary tooth replacement, if baby teeth fall out normally or due to minor injuries, the underlying permanent tooth buds will gradually develop and erupt, eventually replacing the deciduous teeth—this is a natural regenerative process. This is a normal physiological phase in children's dental development, which typically requires no special intervention; regular observation of permanent tooth eruption is sufficient.

When adults experience dental problems such as tooth loss due to severe cavities or periodontal disease, or tooth fractures and loss from trauma, the teeth cannot regenerate naturally. After permanent teeth have erupted, the tooth buds are fully developed and utilized, with no additional reserves. Once an adult tooth is lost, dental function and appearance can only be restored through artificial methods such as dental implants, dentures, or porcelain crowns.

Daily attention to dental protection is essential. Brush teeth twice daily, use dental floss to clean between teeth, and schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings to reduce the risk of cavities and periodontal disease. Avoid biting down on excessively hard objects to prevent tooth fractures or damage, thereby maintaining long-term oral health.

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Can a decayed tooth be extracted?

In general, whether a decayed tooth needs to be extracted depends on the severity of the decay. Mild tooth decay does not require extraction and can be preserved through restorative treatment. However, if the decay has severely damaged the dental pulp or root and cannot be repaired, extraction becomes necessary. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene in daily life, including brushing teeth morning and night, using dental floss, and having regular dental check-ups to detect and treat early-stage cavities promptly.

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Can gum recession be corrected by straightening teeth?

In general, whether orthodontic treatment is possible with gingival recession depends on the severity and control of the condition. Orthodontic treatment may proceed if the gum recession is mild and inflammation is under control. However, if the recession is severe or the inflammation remains unstable, orthodontics should be postponed until the gum problems are properly treated. Daily oral hygiene practices, including brushing teeth morning and evening, using dental floss to clean between teeth, and regular periodontal checkups and maintenance, are essential.

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Can you get a filling or root canal treatment during your menstrual period?

In general, whether dental fillings or root canal treatments can be performed during menstruation depends on the type of treatment. Simple fillings are usually acceptable, but complex root canal procedures are best avoided during menstruation. Extra attention should be paid to oral hygiene during menstruation: brush teeth morning and night, use dental floss regularly, rinse mouth promptly after meals, reduce intake of sugary foods, and prevent worsening of dental problems.

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Can protruding teeth be corrected at age 45?

Whether 45-year-old individuals with protruding teeth can undergo orthodontic treatment depends on their oral health condition. Orthodontic correction is possible for those with good oral health and no severe periodontal issues. However, if serious periodontal disease, alveolar bone loss, or loose teeth are present, orthodontic treatment is not advisable until underlying oral conditions are properly treated. During orthodontic treatment, special attention must be paid to oral hygiene, and tools such as water flossers and dental floss should be used to clean between teeth thoroughly.