Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disease which causes the weakening of the bone structure and as a result, the bone fracture occurs. The disease can exist in the jaw joint and jaw bone. It causes periodontal problem and eventually it may contribute to loosening of teeth and ultimately, tooth lost.
Woman may have more periodontal problem than men. Especially after menopause, the changes in female hormone may cause osteoporosis and this affects the condition of their teeth and bone support around them.
In elderly age, osteoporosis may cause damage to the bone support of teeth. Even if they are edentulous (or lack of any teeth), osteoporosis can cause the loosening of their denture because the denture relies on the ridge bone for support. If the bone within the ridge are weakened, the denture may not have adequate support and become destabilized.
Dentist can help diagnosis and treat periodontal disease, decreasing the detrimental effect of osteoporosis.
Written by Daniel Tee, DDS, MS
Practicing Tempe Family Dentist Serving the city of Tempe, Chandler, Phoenix, Gilbert, and Mesa in Arizona.
