Periodontal Disease and Osteoporosis

Periodontal disease is characterized by a progressive loss of supportive gingival tissue in the gums and jawbone.  It is the number one cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world.  Periodontal disease occurs when toxins found in oral plaque inflame and irritate the soft tissues surrounding the teeth.  If left untreated, bacteria colonies initially cause the systematic destruction of gum tissue, and then proceed to destroy the underlying bone tissue.

Osteoporosis is a common metabolic bone disease which frequently occurs in postmenopausal women, and occurs less frequently in men.  Osteoporosis is characterized by bone fragility, low bone mass and a decrease in bone mineral density.  Many studies have explored and identified a connection between periodontal disease and osteoporosis.

A study conducted at the University of New York at Buffalo in 1995 concluded that post-menopausal women who suffered from osteoporosis were 86% more likely to also develop periodontal disease.

Reasons for the Connection

Though studies are still being conducted in order to further assess the extent of the relationship between osteoporosis and periodontal disease, the researchers have thus far made the following connections:

  • Estrogen deficiency – Estrogen deficiency accompanies menopause and also speeds up the progression of oral bone loss.  The lack of estrogen accelerates the rate of attachment loss (fibers and tissues which keep the teeth stable are destroyed).

  • Low mineral bone density – This is thought to be one of several causes of osteoporosis, and the inflammation from periodontal disease makes weakened bones more prone to break down.  This is why periodontitis can be more progressive in patients with osteoporosis.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Osteoporosis and periodontal disease are much less dangerous if they are diagnosed in the early stages.  Once a diagnosis has been made, the dentist will generally work with the patient’s doctor to ensure that both diseases are effectively controlled.

Here are some methods commonly used to diagnose and treat the diseases:

  • Routine dental x-rays – X-rays can be effectively used to screen for bone loss in the upper and lower jaw, and the dentist can provide interventions for preventing and treating periodontal disease.  It is believed that minimizing periodontal disease will help treat osteoporosis.

  • Estrogen supplements – Providing post-menopausal women with estrogen supplements lowers the rate of attachment loss and also lowers gingival inflammation, which in turn protects the teeth from periodontal disease.

  • Assessment of risk factors – Dentists and doctors are able to closely monitor the patients that are at an increased risk of developing both diseases by assessing family history, medical history, X-ray results, current medications and modifiable risk factors.  Tobacco use, obesity, poor diet and estrogen deficiency can all be managed using a combination of education, support and prescription medications.

If you have any questions about periodontal disease and its connection with osteoporosis, please ask your dentist.

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Testimonials

I’ve been a patient here at Dr. Little‘s office for a number of years. However I haven’t been in for a couple of years due to retiring and trying to get dental insurance. When I came into the office I was greeted as if I had never been gone. I had A couple of x-rays, teeth cleaning, teeth polishing, and set up an appointment for six months from now. Dr. Little came in to meet with me and The dental hygienist. My x-rays did not show any problems and we had a good discussion. I recommend this dental office to anyone who is looking for dental care. This has always been a supportive environment for me and I’m sure for everyone else who comes for care here.

MaryDale S.

We have been patients at Corvallis Dental Care for almost 20 years. We always find the staff very helpful and friendly. They make you feel like family. Dr. Little is friendly and caring and is a master craftsman with all aspects of dentistry. He takes great pride in his work. Since finding Dr. Little, I actually look forward to going to the dentist. I highly recommend Dr. Little and his office.

Tina N.

I have been a patient of Dr. Little for a number of years. I have been to many dentists in the past. I have never been happier with any Dentist. Dr. Little does outstanding work, is thorough, friendly and always takes the time to listen. I would highly recommend Corvallis Dental Care.

Robin is my hygienist at Corvallis Dental Care. Robin is very accomplished and professional, with great chair side manner. Again, I would highly recommend Robin.

Overall, Corvallis Dental Care will always be my choice for dental care.

Joanne S.

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