The condition of the teeth in the oral cavity can be directly related to a person's health status and lifespan.
According to BAKU.WS, scientific studies show that not only tooth loss but also the condition of the remaining teeth in the mouth is considered an indicator of the risk of early death.
Scientists from Osaka University in Japan analyzed the health and dental records of 190,282 people aged 75 and above. During the study, each tooth position was evaluated as missing, healthy, filled, or decayed.
Based on the results of the study, the total number of healthy and filled teeth in the mouth was identified as the strongest factor in predicting the risk of death. Meanwhile, a high number of decayed or missing teeth was directly associated with an increased risk of death.
The scientists stated that filled teeth are also associated with a low risk of death just like healthy teeth. This shows that timely treatment and preservation of teeth plays an important role not only for oral health but also for overall health.
The experts emphasize two main points among the factors that increase the risk of early death. According to them, tooth decay and gum diseases cause chronic inflammation in the body, which can negatively affect other organs. At the same time, the reduction in the number of teeth makes chewing difficult, which in turn hinders healthy nutrition and leads to a weakening of general health.
Additionally, another study conducted by the Tokyo Science Institute found that individuals with three or more "oral frailty" symptoms such as tooth loss, difficulty chewing and swallowing, dry mouth, and speech disorders have a 1.23 times higher need for long-term care and a 1.34 times higher risk of death.
Experts stress that during old age, it is important to regularly monitor not only the number of teeth but also their clinical condition in order to have a longer and healthier life.
