Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by low bone mineral density, affects not only the skeletal system but also has implications for dental health. You need to have any bad teeth fixed or extracted BEFORE you commence treatments for your osteoporosis. Make an online appointment with the best dentists in Croydon South, Victoria at Elation Dental before starting medications. You can also call the best dentists in Croydon South at 9725 2029.

1. Osteoporosis and Teeth:
   • People with osteoporosis may face an increased risk of tooth loss due to low bone mineral density in the jaw and facial bones. Fragile bones make them susceptible to fractures, and this vulnerability extends to the jawbone.
   • Jawbone Density: Osteoporosis-related jawbone loss can complicate dental treatments. Insufficient bone mineral density may hinder the success of procedures like implants, dentures, and bridges.
   • Facial Collapse: Severe jawbone loss can lead to facial collapse, contributing to premature aging. Panoramic dental X-rays can potentially serve as diagnostic tools for osteoporosis by revealing jawbone thickness and porousness.
2. Tooth Loss:
   • Research has found an association between osteoporosis and tooth loss. While other factors (such as age, smoking, race, menopause, oral hygiene, and hormones) play a role, osteoporosis remains a significant contributor.
   • A study involving postmenopausal South Indians revealed that 39% of participants had osteoporosis. Among them, more than half experienced poor dental health, cavities, and tooth loss.
3. Gum Disease (Periodontitis):
   • Both osteoporosis and gum disease involve bone resorption (shrinkage and loss). Studies confirm a relationship between the two conditions, with each potentially acting as a risk factor for the other.
   • Shared Risk Factors: Osteoporosis and gum disease share risk factors such as older age, genetics, hormonal changes, smoking, and deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D.
4. Osteoporosis Medications and Dental Health:
   • Some medications used to treat osteoporosis can impact oral health. Specifically, antiresorptive drugs (which strengthen bones) may cause a rare but serious condition called osteonecrosis.
   • Examples of antiresorptive medications include:
     • Fosamax (alendronate)
     • Actonel (risedronate)
     • Atelvia (risedronate sodium)
     • Didronel (etidronate disodium)
     • Boniva (ibandronate sodium)
     • Reclast (zoledronic acid)
     • Prolia (denosumab)
   • Osteonecrosis most commonly affects bone cancer patients receiving higher doses of these medications. Traumatic dental procedures, such as tooth extraction, can trigger osteonecrosis.
5. Conclusion:
   • While osteoporosis itself doesn’t directly impact teeth, its effects on bone density can indirectly influence dental health.
   • It’s important to make an online appointment at Elation Dental, Croydon South before you start taking osteoporosis medications.