Researchers at Hiroshima University in Japan reported in an August 2026 publication that the number of natural teeth a person has remaining may provide important information about long-term survival after surgery for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Pancreatic cancer is considered one of the cancers with least favorable prognosis.
According to the researchers, “The results showed a substantial and statistically significant survival difference based on natural tooth count. Patients who had 21 or more natural teeth had a median overall survival of 60.7 months. Those with 20 or fewer teeth had a median survival of 39.1 months.”
Researchers cannot state that there is a causal relationship between having more of one’s natural teeth and PDAC survival rates. However, this new study is part of a larger body of evidence showing associations between improved oral health and general well-being.
Periodontists emphasize that losing teeth is not a natural part of the aging process. Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is a leading cause of tooth loss. Periodontal disease is preventable and treatable.
Treatment for gum disease may not only improve oral health, but further research may one day demonstrate that it may also provide the basis for improved systemic health for patients with serious illnesses such as cancer.
