Tooth loss can indicate malnutrition

That's according to a study by Rutgers University researchers.

The study, recently published in the Journal of Aging Research and Clinical Practice, analysed the health records of 107 community-dwelling senior citizens treated at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine clinic between 2015 to 2016.

The results showed that more than 25% of the patients had malnutrition or were at risk for malnutrition.

The researchers saw a trend in which patients with 10 to 19 teeth were more likely to be at risk for malnutrition. Those patients classified as having malnutrition had higher rates of weight loss, ate less and more frequently reported that they suffered with dementia and/or depression and severe illnesses than those who had a normal nutrition status.