Osteoporosis and Oral Health

Osteoporosis and Oral Health             

Osteoporosis and tooth loss are health concerns that affect many older women and men.  Osteoporosis is a medical condition in which the bones become less dense and more likely to fracture.  According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over 50 suffer fractures due to osteoporosis.  The National Institutes of Health (NIH) suggests a link between osteoporosis and bone loss in the jaw bone.  The jaw bone supports and anchors teeth.  When the jaw bone becomes less dense, the jaw may fracture and increase the risk of tooth loss.  Further research is needed to learn how osteoporosis may affect oral health.

Osteoporosis is a medical condition in which the bones lose density.  Bones become brittle and fracture more easily.

Causes of osteoporosis:

·         bone is living tissue that is constantly being broken down and replaced.  Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone does not keep up with the loss of old bone.

Signs of osteoporosis:

·         bone loss in the jaw and around teeth;

·         year to year comparisons of dental x-rays may indicate a decrease in jaw bone density and the bone around your teeth;

·         loose teeth;

·         tooth loss;

·         loose or ill-fitting dentures;

·         gum disease.

Risks factors:

·         women are much more likely to develop osteoporosis than are men;

·         the older you get, the greater your risk of osteoporosis;

·         you are at greatest risk of osteoporosis if you are white or Asian descent;

·         having a parent or sibling with osteoporosis puts you at greater risk;

·         small body frames tend to have a higher risk because they might have less bone mass to draw from as they age.

Can osteoporosis cause periodontitis (gum disease)?

·         Periodontitis (gum disease) is a chronic infection that affects the gums and the bones that support the teeth.  Gum disease can cause teeth to loosen or lead to tooth loss.

·         Some studies suggest that the decreased density of the jaw bone caused by osteoporosis leaves bone more susceptible to periodontal bacteria, increasing the risk for gum disease and tooth loss.

·         More research is needed to learn about the association between osteoporosis and periodontitis.

Role of the dentist and dental x-rays

·         The dentist may be the first health professional to suspect you have osteoporosis.

·         The dentist may detect osteoporosis based on a review of your medical history and the results of a clinical and dental x-ray exam. 

·         Your medical record provides information about risk factors.

·         The dental x-rays are effective in identifying bone loss in the jaw and around teeth.

·         The dentist helps to identify low bone density, which is an indicator for osteoporosis.

Medications affect dental treatment plans

It is important to let your dentist know about all the medication that you take.  Certain medications can affect dental treatment decisions.  Some patients take antiresorptive agents for the treatment of osteoporosis.   Antiresorptive agents are medications that help strengthen bones.  These medications have been associated with a rare but serious condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw that can cause severe damage to the jaw bone.

You do not need to avoid or postpone dental treatment if you are taking antiresorptive agents.  The risk of developing osteonecrosis of the jaw is very low. Untreated dental problems can progress to become more serious problems. Talk to your dentist about the medication that you take and inform your physician about your dental treatment.

Dental examinations are recommended before starting osteoporosis treatment with antiresorptive agents.   The dentists need to develop a treatment plan to ensure patients have good oral health during the treatment of osteoporosis.

Dr. Anna Lee is a General & Cosmetic dentist in Glendora, CA.  She is experienced in all phases of dentistry.  She treats patients of all ages.  If you suspect you have osteoporosis, talk to your physician as soon as possible.  Early intervention is the key to managing both your oral and overall health. 

If you have any questions about your teeth or your dentures, call our office for a consultation at 626-335-5114 or visit us at www.annaleedds.com