Teeth Loss in Adolescents Linked to Increased Bullying Risk, New Study Finds

Recent research conducted by the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne reveals that teenagers who experience tooth loss due to decay or injury are nearly twice as likely to face bullying compared to their peers. The study, published in JDR Clinical & Translational Research, analyzed health data from 4,400 children participating in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Findings indicate that approximately 10% of Australian children have lost teeth, predominantly from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and those residing in rural or remote areas. Senior researcher Associate Professor Ankur Singh emphasized that tooth loss is more than a dental concern; it significantly impacts social and psychological well-being during adolescence. Poor oral health can affect nutrition, sleep, self-confidence, and overall health, with links to serious conditions such as heart disease and high blood pressure. The study underscores the need for targeted prevention and increased access to dental care in underserved communities.

Additionally, the research highlights the prevalence of bullying among young individuals, with around 70% of children aged 12-13 experiencing at least one bullying incident annually. In Australia, 28% of Year 8 students report monthly bullying, and 8% face weekly harassment. Dr. Yuxi Li, the study's lead author, noted that bullying can have severe psychological and physical effects, including weight issues like obesity. The findings stress the importance of addressing oral health disparities and their connection to adolescent social experiences to promote better mental and physical health outcomes.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-teens-teeth-decay-injury-bullied.html