Does the University of Osaka study show a link between oral health and lifespan?

Yes, the University of Osaka study found a significant link between oral health and overall longevity, indicating teeth condition may predict lifespan.

What type of teeth are associated with lower mortality risk?

Healthy teeth and professionally filled teeth were found to be linked with a lower mortality risk in the study.

What is the impact of missing teeth on early death risk?

Individuals with a higher number of missing or decayed teeth were found to be more likely to die earlier than expected.

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Study: Oral Health Linked to Early Death Risk

14 Jan

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Summary

Oral health, particularly teeth condition, may indicate lifespan.
Healthy or filled teeth correlate with lower mortality risk.
Missing or decayed teeth linked to higher risk of early death.

Study: Oral Health Linked to Early Death Risk

A comprehensive study conducted in Japan reveals a significant connection between an individual's oral health and their potential lifespan. Analyzing the dental and health records of over 190,000 adults aged 75 and above, researchers from the University of Osaka observed that the state of a person's teeth offers vital clues about their longevity. The study, published in BMC Oral Health, indicates that having healthy or even professionally filled teeth is associated with a reduced risk of mortality.

Conversely, the findings strongly suggest that a higher number of missing or decayed teeth are linked to an increased likelihood of premature death. Experts theorize that chronic inflammation stemming from poor dental health could impact the entire body, while tooth loss can also compromise nutrition due to difficulties in chewing, thus affecting overall well-being.

These insights underscore the critical importance of consistent dental treatment. Repairing teeth not only improves oral health but may also contribute to mitigating long-term health risks and potentially extending life expectancy. The research also acknowledges that broader socioeconomic factors and access to healthcare, often reflected in dental health, can influence lifespan.