Bone graft treatment

Causes and Impacts of Osteoporosis to Oral Health

Healthy bones are essential to keeping your teeth strong. The jawbone supports teeth, and the stronger your bone the stronger your teeth. Therefore, it makes sense to ensure your bone is looked after as well as your teeth.

The jawbone is what’s known as the alveolar process. This is part of the jaw that keeps the root of the teeth in place and consists of two parts; the proper alveolar bone and the supporting alveolar bone.

Fundamentally, this bone needs looking after so your smile can stay strong. When your bone becomes brittle, there are many problems that can occur not just with your teeth, but with your overall oral health. The general dentist would then need to consider bone grafting treatment.

The disease that causes bone to break easily and to trigger low bone density is what’s known as osteoporosis.

Let’s take a look at the causes of osteoporosis to your oral health.

Image of lady eating a bad diet

Your Diet

Your diet has a significant impact on your oral health and, in particular, your bones. There are certain foods that contain the right nutrients to keep your bone strong. This includes:

  • Calcium – Calcium strengthens the bone to achieve the highest bone density. Your bones naturally degrade when we age, and this may cause a calcium deficiency, but you can reduce the de-stimulation of this by consuming calcium.
  • Vitamin D – Vitamin and D and calcium go hand-in-hand because vitamin D absorbs calcium sources. Calcium maintains the strength of the bone and it is important you consume high levels of both vitamin D and calcium.
  • Phosphorous – Phosphorus works together with vitamin D and calcium to keep your bones strong and healthy. Although, be aware that phosphorus consumption has a limit to avoid too much in your blood.

Smoking and Alcohol

Your body cannot absorb calcium if you smoke. This can cause your bone to become brittle due to the lack of calcium. Smoking and alcohol both play a key role in receding bone strength.

Certain Medications

Medication such as steroids can weaken the bones. If you take long-term medication, then you should expect your bones to become weaker. This does not mean your medication is bad, but certain conditions can cause the side effect of low bone density.

Impact of Osteoporosis to Oral Health

The consequences of osteoporosis and low bone density are bad news for your smile and your oral health. Read on below to learn what the consequences are:

  • Tooth Loss – Teeth are fundamental to the overall quality of life. Osteoporosis introduces low bone density and, subsequently, your teeth, including a fitted dental implant, are likely to become loose from its socket and fall out. Your facial structure will change, making it difficult for your mouth to function appropriately to chew, bite and speak.
  • Gum Disease – The loss of the alveolar bone can also introduce periodontitis. When this happens, harmful bacteria can cause the underlying jawbone to recede and cause gum inflammation, which is bad news for your teeth.

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Ensure that you consume the right nutrients to strengthen your jawbone. Your jawbone is what keeps your teeth strong. Avoid bad habits because the nutrients your bone needs become more important as you age. Strong bone will keep osteoporosis at bay and lead to a strong smile.

Are you seeking oral advice for dental implants? Contact our experienced dentists at Garran Dental today. Alternatively, check yourself in for an appointment with us.

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