Gum Disease and Osteoporosis

The Link Between Gum Disease and Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis becomes a common condition in older patients, particularly women. The thinning of bone tissue and the loss of bone density define osteoporosis. It becomes progressively worse over time. The leading cause of osteoporosis is a drop in estrogen in women, or a drop in testosterone among men. Osteoporosis leaves patients more susceptible to bone fractures.

Periodontal disease can also lead to bone loss, thus periodontal disease and osteoporosis have been studied for links. Consequently, research found that women with periodontal bacteria in their mouths were more likely to have bone loss in the oral cavity and jaw, which can lead to tooth loss. The jaw is composed of bone, which helps hold teeth in place. Studies conducted over a period of 10 years also discovered that osteoporosis patients could significantly reduce tooth loss by controlling periodontal disease. The reverse holds true as well.

It was found that post-menopausal women who suffer from osteoporosis are 86% more likely to develop periodontal disease.

Estrogen deficiency is a link between osteoporosis and periodontal disease. Estrogen deficiency speeds up bone loss, both oral and general. Further, estrogen accelerates the rate of loss of fibers and tissues, which support the tooth structure. Thus, tooth loss occurs when these supportive fibers are lost.

The inflammation from periodontal disease weakens bones and makes them more likely to break down. Accordingly, periodontitis can be severely detrimental to patients suffering from osteoporosis.

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, it is key to take preventative measures against periodontal disease to guard your oral and overall health.

Call our office today at 818-584-1841 for a consultation to review your oral health to maximize your overall health.