Oral Health and Bone Disease
Introduction to Oral Health and Bone Disease
Osteoporosis and tooth loss are health concerns
that affect many older men and women. Osteoporosis is a disease in which the
bones become less dense and more prone to fracture. This disease can affect any
bone in the body, although the bones in the hip, spine, and wrist are most often
affected. In the United States today, 10 million individuals already have
osteoporosis and 34 million more have low bone mass, placing them at increased
risk for this disease.
Research suggests that there is a link between osteoporosis and bone loss in
the jaw. The bone in the jaw supports and anchors our teeth. When the jaw bone
becomes less dense, tooth loss can occur. Tooth loss affects approximately
one-third of adults 65 years and older.
Skeletal Bone Density and Dental Concerns
The portion of the jaw bone that
supports our teeth is known as the alveolar process. Several studies have found
that the loss of alveolar bone is linked to an increase in loose teeth (tooth
mobility) and tooth loss. Women with osteoporosis are three times more likely to
experience tooth loss than those who do not have the disease.
Low bone density in the jaw can result in other dental problems as well. For
example, older women with osteoporosis may be more likely to have difficulty
with loose or ill-fitting dentures and may have less optimal outcomes from oral
surgical procedures.
Periodontal Disease and Bone Health
It is estimated that periodontal disease
affects up to 80 percent of men and women in the United States. Periodontitis is
a chronic infection that affects the gums and the bones that support the teeth.
Bacteria and the body's own immune system break down the bone and connective
tissue that hold teeth in place. The teeth may eventually become loose, fall
out, or have to be removed.
While tooth loss is a well-documented consequence of periodontitis, the
relationship between periodontitis and skeletal bone density is less clear.
However, some studies have found a strong and direct relationship between bone
loss, periodontitis, and tooth loss. It is possible that the loss of alveolar
bone mineral density leaves bone more susceptible to periodontal bacteria,
increasing the risk for periodontitis and tooth loss.
Next: Can dental X-rays detect osteoporosis? »
- Dentures - Get information about complete and partial dentures, costs, problems, types of denture adhesive, and how dentures are made. Plus, get tips on getting used to dentures.
- Osteoporosis - Get information on osteoporosis causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment (drugs), prevention (diet, weight-bearing exercise), statistics, risk factors (hereditary) and research.
- Toothache - Complete explanation of toothache causes including - dental cavities, dental abscess, gum disease, irritation of the tooth root, cracked tooth syndrome, temporomandibular disease, impaction, eruption, as well as diseases. of the heart, sinuses, and ears.
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