December 8, 2023
Maintaining strong and healthy bones is important not only for your overall wellbeing but also for your oral health. As we get older, we become more likely to develop osteoporosis, a condition wherein our bones grow less dense and more brittle. Read more to learn about how osteoporosis can affect your oral health over time.
Osteoporosis & Tooth Loss
Research has shown that osteoporosis is linked to tooth loss. This is because your jawbone plays a critical role in supporting your teeth. If your jawbone grows weaker due to osteoporosis, your teeth can become loose and even fall out.
A weak jawbone also makes it more difficult to conduct a successful dental implant procedure to replace missing teeth. In some cases, bone grafts can help strengthen the jaw to make implantation possible, but the success of such procedures depends on the severity of the osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis & Other Oral Health Concerns
Beyond tooth loss, osteoporosis can contribute to other oral health issues. People with osteoporosis may be more susceptible to gum problems such as inflammation, recession, and tooth loss.
Additionally, osteoporosis can make it more challenging to fit dentures properly. As the jawbone weakens, the dentures may become less stable, leading to discomfort, slippage, and difficulty chewing.
How to Maintain Oral Health with Osteoporosis
If you have osteoporosis, there are a few things you can do to prioritize your oral health. Regular dental check-ups become even more important to monitor changes in the mouth and address emerging issues promptly. We can recommend strategies to enhance oral health, such as calcium-rich diets and proper dental hygiene practices.
Comprehensive Dental Care in Phoenixville, PA
For more information about the connection between osteoporosis and oral health, reach out to the team at Dental Wellness of Phoenixville. We take care of patients of all ages and offer preventive and restorative treatments that will help keep your smile healthy well into your golden years!
