Osteoporosis is a common medical condition. Characterized by the weakening of bones, it affects over 53 million Americans, most of whom are over the age of 50.
Just as there is a mind-body connection, there is also a mouth-body connection. As such, it’s only natural that osteoporosis affects oral health. At Country Club Dental in Flagstaff, we’re here to keep you informed about dental health-related medical issues. Read on to learn about the relationship between osteoporosis and oral health.
Osteoporosis Causes
Your bones are supposed to regenerate as you age. However, in osteoporosis patients, the regeneration process slows down, or even stops. In turn, the bones in the back, hips, and other areas weaken, leading to fractures and significant discomfort.
Certain factors can make you more susceptible to osteoporosis, including:
- Genetics. The condition runs in families.
- Autoimmune disorders, such as hypothyroidism or Celiac disease, are linked to bone disease.
- Arthritis, the inflammation of joints, is closely linked with bone thinning.
- Age. As stated earlier, osteoporosis is most common in people over 50.
- Diet. Calcium deficiency is linked to osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis and Oral Health
Naturally, the deterioration of bones causes the mouth to suffer as well. Osteoporosis causes oral health issues such as:
- Tooth loss. Unless you’re a small child, you don’t want your teeth to fall out! But patients with brittle bones lose will lose teeth.
- Jaw problems and pain. The alveolar process is a thick bone connecting the tooth sockets to the jaw. When it loses density, chewing, drinking, and speaking all become more difficult. This condition is formally known as osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).
- Periodontitis. Studies have suggested that the weakening of the jaw causes bacteria buildup, which, in turn, affects the gums.
Treatments
While osteoporosis is not curable, it is manageable. Dentists prescribe bisphosphonates to ease the pain and prevent further bone loss. Alternatively, medications are sometimes prescribed to regrow bones.
If you are in search of an medical doctor to manage your osteoporosis, we can help! We would be glad refer you to a great general practitioner.
Preventative Dentistry for Osteoporosis Patients
We encourage osteoporosis patients to watch your diet, drink water, and attend regular medical and dental exams. Always be mindful of your oral health! Doing otherwise can cause the condition to wreak havoc on your mouth.
Your Local Dentist in Flagstaff
At Country Club Dental, we treat a wide variety of medical needs. We’re passionate about helping osteoporosis patients maintain excellent oral health. Let’s discuss your overall health plan at your next exam.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/29/21). Image by BedexpStock on Pixabay.
