AXIN2 mutations link oligodontia and colorectal polyposis while epidemiological evidence for tooth agenesis remains inconsistentMissing teeth may link to higher risk of certain cancers

Frontiers in Medicine Published August 6, 2026 Study authors: Ahmad Shoeb Hashmi, Raji Ranganathan, Kunal Vats, Diana Baburaj, Pedro Sampaio, Dhvani Chauhan, Onai… DOI ↗ Editorial oversight: Dr. Julia Lee, PhD · Oncology, Genomics & Drug Development

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Key Takeaway

Note that while AXIN2 mutations link oligodontia to colorectal polyposis, tooth agenesis is not a universal risk marker.

This systematic review synthesizes evidence regarding the relationship between tooth agenesis (hypodontia and oligodontia) and colorectal cancer (CRC). The analysis focuses on identifying whether dental anomalies serve as indicators for increased susceptibility to colorectal neoplasia.

The synthesis highlights a clear distinction between genetic and epidemiological findings. Specifically, there are strong genetic associations identified between pathogenic AXIN2 variants, oligodontia, and colorectal polyposis/CRC. In contrast, some case-control studies reported no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of missing teeth between CRC patients and controls. Additionally, a positive association with increased hazard ratios was noted for early-onset colorectal cancer in specific age groups.

The authors note that evidence is mixed, as genetic findings are stronger than general epidemiological correlations. The review highlights inconsistent findings across different study types. Clinical application is limited because tooth agenesis is not a universal risk marker; however, the authors suggest targeted AXIN2 testing for patients presenting with both polyposis and tooth agenesis as an interim approach.

How this fits prior evidence

This systematic review addresses a gap in identifying non-traditional risk markers for colorectal cancer. While it does not directly relate to previously covered topics such as MRI-based radiomics models, indigo carmine for adenoma detection, fecal microbiota transplantation, or patient perception of screening ambiguity, it provides specific genetic context regarding AXIN2 mutations and their link to both dental anomalies and colorectal polyposis.

When a person is born with fewer teeth than usual, it might seem like just a dental issue. However, researchers are looking into why some people have these missing teeth and if it signals something deeper about their health. Some studies suggest that certain genetic mutations can cause both the missing teeth and an increased risk of colorectal cancer in specific age groups.

The link is strongest when looking at specific genes like AXIN2. When this gene has a mutation, it can lead to a condition where many polyps grow in the colon. While not everyone with missing teeth will develop cancer, these genetic links provide a clearer picture for patients who have both conditions.

It is important to note that the evidence is mixed. Not every person with missing teeth is at higher risk, and some studies show no clear difference in general populations. Because the data is inconsistent across different types of studies, doctors suggest using specific genetic testing as a targeted way to check for risks in high-risk patients.

What this means for you:

Specific genetic mutations linked to missing teeth may increase the risk of early-onset colorectal cancer.

Common questions

Does having fewer teeth mean I will get cancer?

Not necessarily. While some studies show a link between certain genetic mutations and both missing teeth and colorectal cancer, it is not a universal risk marker. The evidence is inconsistent across general populations, so you should talk to your doctor about your specific health risks.

What makes the link between teeth and cancer stronger?

The connection is much stronger when looking at specific genetic mutations, such as those in the AXIN2 gene. These mutations are more clearly linked to both missing teeth (oligodontia) and the growth of polyps or colorectal cancer than general observations are.

Is there a way to check for this risk?

Because the evidence is mixed, doctors suggest that targeted genetic testing for AXIN2 can be used as an interim approach. This helps identify patients who have both polyposis and missing teeth and may need closer monitoring.

Study Details

Study typeMeta analysis

EvidenceLevel 1

PublishedAug 2026

View Original Abstract ↓

Tooth agenesis, including hypodontia and oligodontia, is one of the most common developmental dental anomalies. Emerging evidence suggests a potential association between tooth agenesis and colorectal cancer (CRC), particularly in the context of shared genetic pathways such as WNT signalling and AXIN2 mutations. However, findings across epidemiological and genetic studies remain inconsistent. To evaluate the current evidence regarding the association between tooth agenesis and colorectal cancer, with emphasis on epidemiological trends, genetic susceptibility, and clinical implications. A systematic review of recent observational, cohort, and genetic studies investigating the relationship between tooth agenesis and CRC was conducted. Studies assessing prevalence, risk estimates (HR, OR), and genetic variants, particularly AXIN2 mutations were analyzed. Both statistically significant and non-significant findings were considered to provide a balanced synthesis of the literature. Recent large-scale cohort data suggest a positive association between tooth agenesis and early-onset CRC, with increased hazard ratios reported in specific age groups. Strong genetic associations have been identified between pathogenic AXIN2 variants, oligodontia, and colorectal polyposis/CRC. Conversely, some case-control studies found no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of missing teeth between CRC patients and controls. Overall, evidence indicates that while tooth agenesis is not a universal risk marker for CRC, specific genetic subgroups may present substantially increased risk. Current evidence supports a potential association between tooth agenesis, particularly oligodontia linked to AXIN2 mutations and colorectal neoplasia. Although not all studies demonstrate significant epidemiological correlations, genetic findings highlight important clinical implications. Tooth agenesis should not be used for universal screening; targeted AXIN2 testing in patients with polyposis and tooth agenesis is a reasonable interim approach, pending larger prospective studies with standardised methods. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/register/TemplatePreview, identifier CRD420251231764.

AXIN2 mutations link oligodontia and colorectal polyposis while epidemiological evidence for tooth agenesis remains inconsistentMissing teeth may link to higher risk of certain cancers

How this fits prior evidence

Common questions

Study Details

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How this fits prior evidence

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