Can dental problems trigger bullying among teens?

This research suggests that bullying is widespread, with 70 percent of children aged 12-13 experiencing at least one incident of bullying a year. Source: Main image: Getty, Inset: Associate Professor Ankur Singh, University of Sydney (supplied)

A new study, published in JDR Clinical & Translational Research and based on data from 4,400 children, has found a link between tooth loss and bullying among adolescents. Senior author of the study, Associate Professor Ankur Singh from the University of Sydney, highlights the psychological effects of tooth decay. Based on official figures showing that 24 per cent of children suffer from decay in their adult teeth, the study is calling for stronger government support to provide free dental care for children and adolescents.

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Published 2 September 2025 11:15am

Updated 2 September 2025 11:17am

By Bhavya Pandey

Presented by Bhavya Pandey

Source: SBS

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A new study, published in JDR Clinical & Translational Research and based on data from 4,400 children, has found a link between tooth loss and bullying among adolescents. Senior author of the study, Associate Professor Ankur Singh from the University of Sydney, highlights the psychological effects of tooth decay. Based on official figures showing that 24 per cent of children suffer from decay in their adult teeth, the study is calling for stronger government support to provide free dental care for children and adolescents.

Full study available here.

(Disclaimer: The views/opinions expressed in this interview are the personal views of the individual. SBS neither agrees nor disagrees with them.)

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