According to a news release from the American Academy of Periodontology, published on April 8, 2026, weight gain is primarily associated with fewer teeth or with loss of bone density and gum support for teeth. The loss of teeth affects an individual’s chewing ability, which limits their healthy food choices.
These key findings add to the growing body of evidence that periodontal health plays a vital role in overall well-being, especially as we grow older. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums supports nutrition, good food habits, and an enhanced quality of life later in life.
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To conduct the research, scientists tracked over 900 subjects participating in a longitudinal health study in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Memphis, Tennessee. At the time of their inclusion into the study, the subjects were examined for dental health, specifically tooth loss and periodontal disease.
Over 4 years of observation, almost 12% of the subjects gained at least 5% of their body mass. People who had lost teeth or had poor dental hygiene were more prone to weight gain. The loss of teeth may lead people to avoid nutritious foods high in fibre, such as vegetables and fruit, and to opt for soft foods with higher calorie counts.
People who aim to maintain good health and manage weight must prioritise their oral health first, an expert at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in the report. However, they noted that further research is needed better to understand the link between missing teeth and weight gain.
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