Although research on the connection between gum disease and osteoporosis is somewhat limited, it indicates that post-menopausal women with osteoporosis have as much as an 85 percent chance of developing gum disease as well. Additionally, gum disease can certainly impact bone health by causing loss of jawbone – and it must be stopped to help maintain overall health.
Gum disease permanently destroys gums, the connective tissue that holds teeth in place and the jawbone. It’s the primary cause of tooth loss in the United States and many other nations. When a plaque in the mouth isn’t cleaned away, bacteria feed on it and cause inflammation and pockets between teeth and gums where even more bacteria can form. Eventually, all impacted gum tissue is destroyed, and so is the bone beneath.
Osteoporosis is a bone disease often associated with older women, but it can impact anyone. Symptoms are low bone mineral density and mass leading to fragile bones.
The Gums And Osteoporosis
Periodontal (gum) disease is another concern when people have osteoporosis
Periodontal disease weakens the body, negatively impacting overall health. In addition, there are two primary ways that gum disease is directly linked with osteoporosis:
Estrogen deficiency. Estrogen levels drop as women go through menopause, and this increases the speed of bone loss throughout the body, including in the mouth. This can have an impact on the stability and viability of the gums and other tissue in the mouth.
Low bone mineral density. A primary symptom of osteoporosis is weak bones, meaning that it is even easier than normal for a person with gum disease to lose bone from the disease – because the bone is already negatively impacted by osteoporosis.
Diagnosis and Successful Treatment
Osteoporosis and gum disease are both treatable, so you should take action rather than worry. Both conditions are best treated early, but intervention can help at any time. Your doctor and your dentist may want to work together to help you keep the conditions in check. Some of the things your dental and medical team may do include:
Take digital dental x-rays. These images may be the best way for your dentist to understand the amount of bone loss in the jawbone and determine what actions are necessary to eliminate gum disease and treat the problems left behind.
Prescribe estrogen supplements. Your doctor may suggest supplementing your body’s natural estrogen with a prescribed product that can help reduce gum inflammation and help improve overall health so you can better fight off harmful bacteria.
Monitor risk factors. You may be at greater risk of gum disease and osteoporosis than the average person, and your dentist and doctor may begin monitoring you carefully before any signs or symptoms develop.
Reach out now to a San Diego Dentist Association member if you’d like to connect with a San Diego dentist who can help you navigate your unique challenges related to gum disease, osteoporosis, and more. It’s the right decision for your oral and overall health.