According to a 2022 study, 3.4% of Australians were diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia, its early stage, with most patients over the age of 50. The condition causes bone density loss, which leads to weakened bones that are more likely to fracture. It’s natural to wonder about how this condition might affect your teeth, since teeth and bones share some structural similarities.
Osteoporosis doesn’t directly damage or weaken teeth, as they are made of different minerals than bones. While bones are made of collagen and calcium phosphate and contain living tissue that is continually renewed, teeth have several layers of different minerals. These layers start with dentin, which makes up the structure of the tooth and absorbs shocks. Next is cementum, which protects the root, and finally, enamel, which is calcified tissue and is what gives your teeth their white appearance. The layers of hard material in our teeth protect the pulp, which is in the middle of each tooth and contains blood vessels and nerves. This is one reason why taking care of your teeth matters—because unlike bones, they don’t regenerate.
While osteoporosis doesn’t attack your teeth directly, since teeth themselves lack living tissue, it is associated with some tooth loss. A study in 2009 showed women with osteoporosis had an average of three fewer teeth than women without the condition. The exact reason for the link is still being studied, but it’s likely because osteoporosis causes bone density loss in the jaw. This can weaken the tooth’s foundation and, over time, even lead to teeth moving, which could cause damage to the roots and a weakened blood supply to the tooth, resulting in breakage and loss.
Osteoporosis also increases the risk of developing periodontitis. This common gum disease can progress if untreated, and as it progresses, it can lead to infections and damage to the tooth foundations and eventually lead to tooth loss.
How Osteoporosis Treatment Can Impact Your Oral Health
Another possible reason for tooth loss due to osteoporosis is the treatment for the condition. Many people are prescribed bisphosphonates and can be administered as tablets or intravenously. This medication is effective because it blocks the cells that break down bone tissue, thereby slowing bone loss and reducing the ongoing risk of fractures.
However, as the bisphosphonates accumulate in areas of high bone turnover, including the jaw, they can potentially lead to a condition known as osteonecrosis of the jaw. This results in blood flow being cut off to the jaw, which can cause exposed bone. This is rare, but worth being aware of. It is more common in individuals who have undergone cancer treatment, those who maintain poor dental hygiene, or have dental procedures while on bisphosphonates. It’s important to consult your doctor before starting treatment to understand the associated risks and whether alternatives are available. If possible, try to schedule any necessary dental surgeries before commencing the new medication to enhance your chances of quick healing.
Be sure to let your dentist know what medications and treatments you are taking so they can look out for complications like this. Regular dental check-ups are important for everyone, but especially if you have osteoporosis, to monitor your tooth and jaw health. If you develop periodontitis, regular check-ups can lead to quick treatment, which can stop or slow the progression of the disease, keeping your teeth secure for longer.
Tips for Healthy Teeth and Bones
There isn’t a cure for osteoporosis yet, although many people live well with it and see improvements with medications. There is a genetic component that can increase your likelihood of developing the condition, but there are some easy steps you can take now that could prevent or delay the onset. Before we go through them, if you’re worried about your risk of developing osteoporosis, reach out to your doctor for specific advice and a screening to put your mind at rest.
The best steps for good bone health are eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. Smoking should be avoided and it’s a good idea to reduce alcohol intake, which will help keep your teeth healthy, too. The most important vitamins and minerals to consider for bone health are vitamin D and calcium. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. If you don’t get enough calcium, your body will take it from your bones since your body doesn’t produce it. Over time, this weakens them, causing or worsening osteoporosis.
The best source of vitamin D is safe sun exposure. It’s important to balance exposure with sun protection, and there are guidelines for how much time in the sun is safe based on your skin colour, season, and what area of Australia you’re in.
Some foods, such as egg yolks and oily fish, contain vitamin D but in small amounts, so if you have sensitive skin and can’t handle safe sun exposure, it’s best to speak to your doctor about supplements. Luckily, calcium is readily available in many foods, so it’s easy to reach your recommended dose through a healthy diet. Dairy products like milk and cheese contain high amounts of calcium, as do fish with edible bones, such as sardines. For those who don’t eat fish or animal products, it can also be found in tofu and green leafy vegetables such as kale and broccoli. Many plant-based milks are fortified with calcium, too.
To support your dental health, follow the same tips and also brush well with fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Remember to use floss or interdental brushes to get in between your teeth once a day and limit sugary drinks and snacks. Finally, attend your check-ups regularly. As mentioned above, this allows your dentist to keep on top of any changes and watch for medication side effects.
At Smile On Clinics, we’re proud to manage a network of clinics that can help you with those regular check-ups and any dental and cosmetic procedures you might need. Find your nearest clinic here.