By Karleia Steiner
At first glance oral health and skeletal health seem unlikely to be related. But consider that the teeth are linked directly to the bone and may even be thought of as a visible part of the skeleton. There is definitely a connection between oral health and skeletal health although it is complex.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease. It is a result of not making enough bone or of losing too much bone. The bone becomes weak and porous. Early stages of the disease may be referred to as having low bone density. It affects a significant proportion of older people, both men and women.
Dentists can help screen for osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is asymptomatic and therefore many individuals are unaware that they have the condition. Consequences of untreated osteoporosis can be severe and include hip and vertebral fractures. Twenty percent of seniors who fracture a hip die within a year of the break. Vertebral fractures can be very painful and can cause functional limitations. Treatments for osteoporosis work better if initiated early in the disease process. Dentists may be in a unique position to observe signs of osteoporosis on dental x-rays and in signs of deteriorating teeth. Yet another reason to not skip dental checkups. Contact a quality dental clinic like Franklin Dental Centre for an appointment.
Osteoporosis can cause tooth loss
Osteoporosis and low bone density affects many older individuals, both men and women. The teeth are directly attached to the jawbone by bone referred to as the alveolar process. Individuals with low bone density in the jaw suffer from loose teeth and lost teeth more than individuals with stronger bone.
Osteoporosis can leave teeth vulnerable to periodontal disease
Although the exact cause and effect sequence isn’t clear, there is a link between tooth loss, periodontal disease and osteoporosis. Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Periodontal disease is well-known to lead to tooth loss. There does seem to be some evidence to support the idea that osteoporosis can make the bone of the jaw more vulnerable to the bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
Can osteoporosis treatment improve the health of teeth?
Although there is no evidence in existence to answer the question of whether oral health can be improved by osteoporosis treatments, it makes logical sense that it would. If weakening bone undermines the health and stability of teeth, then strengthening the bone should improve the health and stability of teeth.
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