Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens bones and has a direct relationship to oral health. The disease, which mainly affects older women, can trigger dental health issues including loose teeth and tooth loss. Drugs used to treat osteoporosis may also affect the jaw bone.

Loose teeth may be one of the first noticeable signs of bone loss in the jaw. Women who suffer from osteoporosis are more likely than those who do not to experience tooth loss.

For patients who wear dentures the bone changes to the jaw mean that fitting the dentures can be problematic. Many of these denture wearing patients complain about poor fit and loose denture plates.

The best way to protect your oral health after a diagnosis of osteoporosis is to maintain a regular schedule of dental checkups and cleanings. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help strengthen and maintain good bone health. Eating a healthy diet that contains high amounts of vitamin D, calcium and other nutrients suggested by your physician can help. Exercise is also important and should include weight bearing exercises such as weight training, walking, running or dancing. Talk to your physician about lifestyle changes you should make to improve your bone health.

If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis and placed on medication for the disorder it is vitally important that you tell your dentist. Keeping regular appointments will allow your dentist to keep tabs on the health of your jaw bone and more quickly become aware of possible bone loss.

If you have not visited the dentist recently and have been diagnosed with osteoporosis please contact Dr. Mark Levy in Columbus, OH today at 614-476-6696.