The Straits Times

There is growing evidence that the number and condition of our teeth affect how well we age.

“Good oral health is often linked to better overall health, nutrition and quality of life, which can help people stay active and independent as they age,” says Yang Jingrong, a senior consultant at the periodontics unit, department of restorative dentistry, at the National Dental Centre Singapore (NDCS).

A study led by NDCS in collaboration with Duke-NUS Medical School, published in 2026, found that older adults who kept more of their natural teeth tended to stay independent for longer.

For example, those aged 60 to 80 who had 20 to 32 natural teeth and who did not need dentures generally had more years without difficulties in daily activities such as eating, dressing and moving around.

A 60-year-old with 20 to 32 natural teeth may enjoy more than five additional years of independent living and more than three extra years without physical limitations.

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