A person’s oral health, particularly the condition of their teeth, may offer vital clues about their overall lifespan, according to a large new study conducted in Japan. The research suggests that maintaining healthy or properly treated teeth could play a significant role in reducing the risk of early death.
Researchers from the University of Osaka analysed health and dental records of over 190,000 adults aged 75 and above, categorising each tooth as healthy, filled, decayed, or missing. The findings, published in the journal BMC Oral Health, show that not just the number of teeth, but their quality and condition, strongly influences mortality risk.
The study found that individuals with a higher number of healthy teeth or professionally filled teeth had a lower risk of death, with both categories offering similar protective benefits. In contrast, participants with more decayed or missing teeth were significantly more likely to die earlier than expected.
According to the researchers, the combined count of healthy and filled teeth was a better predictor of longevity than simply counting how many natural teeth remained. This reinforces earlier evidence linking poor oral health to broader health complications.
Why Dental Health Matters Beyond the Mouth
Experts believe the connection may stem from chronic inflammation caused by untreated dental decay or tooth loss, which can affect other parts of the body and contribute to conditions such as heart disease. Additionally, missing teeth can make chewing difficult, leading to poor nutrition and reduced overall wellbeing.
The findings also underline the importance of timely dental treatment, suggesting that repairing damaged teeth may help lower long-term health risks, particularly among older adults.
Researchers further noted that poor dental health may reflect wider social and economic challenges, including limited access to healthcare and lower socioeconomic status, both of which are known to impact life expectancy.
A Case for Preventive and Accessible Dental Care
The study adds to growing evidence that oral health is closely tied to overall health, especially in ageing populations. Ensuring access to affordable dental care and encouraging early treatment of dental problems could therefore play a role in improving longevity and quality of life.