Research supported by the National
Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) suggests
that dental x-rays may be used as a screening tool for osteoporosis. Researchers
found that dental x-rays were highly effective in distinguishing people with
osteoporosis from those with normal bone density.
Since many people see their dentist more regularly then their doctor,
dentists are in a unique position to help identify people with low bone density
and to encourage them to talk to their doctors about their bone health. Dental
concerns that may indicate low bone density include loose teeth, gums detaching
from the teeth or receding gums, and ill-fitting or loose dentures.
The Effects of Osteoporosis Treatments on Oral Health
It is not known whether
osteoporosis treatments have the same beneficial effect on oral health as they
do on other bones in the skeleton. While additional research is needed to fully
clarify the relationship between osteoporosis and oral bone loss, scientists are
hopeful that efforts to optimize skeletal bone density will have a favorable
impact on dental health.
Of concern is the fact that bisphosphonates, a group of medications available
for the treatment of osteoporosis, have been linked to the development of
osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). The risk of ONJ has been greatest in those
receiving large doses of intravenous bisphosphonates, a therapy used to treat
cancer. The occurrence of ONJ is rare in individuals taking oral forms of the
medication for osteoporosis treatment.
Taking Steps for Healthy Bones
There are many important steps you can to take
to optimize your bone health:
Live a healthy
lifestyle. Don't smoke, and if you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
Engage in regular physical activity or exercise. Weight-bearing activities, such
as walking, jogging, dancing, and lifting weights, are the best for strong
bones.
Report any problems with loose teeth, detached or receding gums, and
loose or ill-fitting dentures to your dentist and doctor.
Learn about osteoporosis, a condition characterized by the loss of bone density, which leads to an increased risk of bone fracture. Unless one experiences a fracture, a person may have osteoporosis for decades without knowing it. Treatment for osteoporosis may involve medications that stop bone loss and increase bone strength and bone formation, as well as quitting smoking, regular exercise, cutting back on alcohol intake, and eating a calcium- and vitamin D-rich balanced diet.
Toothache usually refers to pain around the teeth or jaws. In most instances, toothaches are caused by tooth or jaw problems, such as a dental cavity, a cracked tooth, an exposed tooth root, gum disease, disease of the jaw joint (TMJ), or spasms of the muscles used for chewing. A toothache can also be caused by a problem that does not originate from a tooth or the jaw, like diseases of the heart (angina or heart attack), ear infections, and sinus infections. A thorough oral examination, which includes dental X-rays, can help determine the cause.
Fractures occur when bone cannot withstand the outside forces applied to the bone. Fractures can be open or closed. Types of fractures include: greenstick, spiral, comminuted, transverse, compound, or vertebral compression. Common fractures include: stress fracture, compression fracture, rib fracture, and skull fracture. Treatment depends upon the type of fracture.
Smoking is an addiction. More than 430,000 deaths occur each year in the U.S. from smoking related illnesses. Secondhand smoke or "passive smoke" also harm family members, coworkers, and others around smokers. There are a number of techniques available to assist people who want to quit smoking.
Gum disease is caused by plaque and may result in tooth loss without proper treatment. Symptoms and signs of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontal disease) include receding gums, bad breath and pocket formation between the teeth and gums. Treatment depends upon the stage of the gum disease, how you responded to earlier treatments, and your overall health.
Vitamins are organic substances that are essential for the proper growth and functioning of the body. Calcium is a mineral essential for healthy bones and is also important for muscle contraction, heart action, and normal blood clotting.
Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of disease. Regular exercise can also reduce the symptoms of stress and anxiety. There are fitness programs that fit any age or lifestyle.
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