Crooked Teeth Linked to Higher Tooth Loss Risk

New study finds anterior crossbite increases likelihood of losing molars later in life.

Feb. 10, 2026 at 6:55am

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A recent study by researchers at Tohoku University found that adults with anterior crossbite, where the upper front teeth bite inside the lower front teeth, have a 1.14-fold increased risk of losing their molars compared to those with normal bite alignment. The findings suggest that malocclusions can alter the distribution of chewing forces, potentially leading to excessive stress and damage on certain teeth over time.

Why it matters

Losing 20 or more teeth can significantly impact chewing, nutrition, and overall health. These findings underscore the importance of early intervention and regular dental checkups to address bite alignment issues before they lead to long-term tooth loss.

The details

The study analyzed data from over 17,000 participants aged 40 and older, categorizing them based on their bite alignment. In addition to the increased risk of molar loss with anterior crossbite, the researchers also found that individuals with an anterior open bite, where the front teeth don't touch when the mouth is closed, had a lower prevalence of posterior tooth loss. The researchers believe these differing effects are due to how malocclusions alter the distribution of chewing forces on the teeth.

  • The study was published in February 2026 in the journal Clinical Oral Investigations.

The players

Tohoku University

A public research university located in Sendai, Japan, where the study on the link between malocclusion and tooth loss was conducted.

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What’s next

The Tohoku University research team plans to conduct longitudinal studies to track tooth loss progression in individuals with anterior crossbite over time, as well as investigate whether these associations hold true in populations beyond Japan.

The takeaway

This study highlights how malocclusion, beyond just aesthetic concerns, can have significant implications for long-term oral health. By addressing bite alignment issues early through regular dental care and, if needed, orthodontic treatment, individuals may be able to reduce their risk of future tooth loss and its associated health impacts.