Lost more than five teeth by age 65? Then you're MORE likely to suffer an early death, experts say
- New research reveals a correlation between teeth retention and life expectancy
- Patients with a full set of teeth by age 74 have a better chance of living to 100
- Experts say this is because poor health often manifests in the mouth early
- A link exists between teeth loss and cardiovascular disease and diabetes
Tooth loss can be an indicator of life-threatening health concerns, researchers claim.
Those who have lost five teeth or more by the age of 65 have a heightened risk of early death, scientists say.
This is because physical stress and poor health often manifests early in the mouth, according to the Oral Health Foundation.
The research draws a direct link between teeth retention and a host of serious health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis.
Are you at risk? Teeth health can be symptomatic of underlying health concerns, experts claim
Conversely, those who have a full set of teeth by the age of 74 have a greater chance of reaching 100 years old, the study published in Periodontology 2000 found.
This is, in part, because the bacteria in our mouths can get into the blood stream and connect themselves to the coronary arteries, causing a potential blockage.
Dr Nigel Carter, of the Oral Health Foundation, said: 'There are many reasons why somebody can lose their teeth, it could be down to trauma, smoking or just a continued poor oral health routine.
'But it can also be related to gum disease which is closely linked to health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
'What this piece of research suggests is that tooth loss can often be a signifier of a poor quality of other areas of a person’s lifestyle and therefore a higher likelihood of someone having health issues because of this.'
'Importantly it also shows that diseases associated with tooth loss, such as gum disease, can also contribute to an increased risk of life limiting diseases.
Tell-tale signs: Losing more than five teeth should be a warning sign for the health-conscious
'It is very evident that what is going on in our mouths can really be a useful window to our overall health.
'It is therefore vital that we take proper care of our mouth and pay close attention to what is happening as it could be a sign of something more serious.'
Now, the Oral Health Foundation is urging people to maintain good oral hygiene, avoid sugar intake and pay regular visits to the dentist.
Dr Carter added: 'Tooth loss itself comes with its own problems, it can lead to issues with eating and therefore a person’s ongoing nutrition and even create problems with their ability to communicate.
'We welcome more research into this matter as it may be a way to detect and prevent diseases related to tooth loss and other serious systemic diseases.'
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