Osteoporosis and oral health have a closer connection than originally thought. Osteoporosis is a bone-weakening condition that makes the bone more vulnerable to fracture. Osteoporosis is a common condition that impacts parts of your body, including the underlying jaw bone that supports the teeth.

Osteoporosis can hinder any opportunity for you as a patient to have certain cosmetic treatments to transform your smiles, such as traditional implants or all-on-four implants. If you’re considering dental implant treatment, your bone density and strength need to be strong enough to withstand the implant, otherwise, the implant won’t remain firmly in its place as its was originally designed to do. The jawbone needs to be relatively healthy but osteoporosis will have a negative impact on your oral health.

Your bones are constantly growing and may continue to change in shape during life. Some bones may dissolve and new bone cells grow back. Osteoporosis is given the term “silent disease” because it is likely that the only way you realise if you’re suffering from osteoporosis is when a bone breaks.

Osteoporosis and Oral Health Concerns

Osteoporosis is a sign of low bone density and strength. The jawbone that supports the teeth is known as the alveolar process. The link between the weakening of the alveolar bone and oral health will result in an increase in potential tooth loss, and you’ll need emergency treatment at the earliest opportunity.

Low bone density within the jaw also contributes to further oral health problems as well, and it is more common in those who have loose dentures.

Periodontal Disease and Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease is a chronic condition that affects the gums and bones to support teeth. The connective tissue and bone is broken down due to bacteria build-up, causing teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.

Tooth loss is a common consequence of periodontal disease. The alveolar bone leaves the bone to become more susceptible to harmful bacteria build-up to cause tooth loss.

Ways To Reduce Chances of Osteoporosis

Lifestyle changes are the key to reducing osteoporosis. A lack of bone density is a sign that you have enough calcium and vitamin D in the body. To increase these minerals, you need to replace any coffee or alcohol intake with plant-based foods such as green vegetables, fish, dairy and nuts. Staying active is also important to keep bones strong. This, alongside maintaining good oral health are recommendations that the dentist would make.

Are you worried about your teeth falling out? This could be a sign of osteoporosis. Contact us here at Piazza Dental for emergency treatment as soon as possible. We’re motivated by transforming your smile and giving you the oral care you need.