Around 12.6% of Americans (more than 43 million people) develop osteoporosis in later life. When you think about osteoporosis, you might picture fragile hips and weak spines, but did you know this condition can also affect your mouth?
At Advanced Implant Dentistry & MedSpa of North Shore in Glenview, Illinois, Howard Jeon, DMD, and our team see firsthand how bone health connects directly to oral health. Understanding this link can help you protect your smile while also caring for your overall well-being.
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones lose density and become weaker, making them more likely to break. It often develops silently over many years.
By the time someone realizes they have osteoporosis, they may already be suffering from frequent fractures or have developed a dowager’s hump (a curvature at the top of the spine caused by multiple vertebral compression fractures).
While osteoporosis most often affects the hips, wrists, and spine, it also has a hidden impact on the jaw.
Your jawbone provides the foundation that supports and anchors your teeth. Just like other bones in your body, it can lose density over time.
When the jawbone weakens, teeth may loosen, shift, or even fall out. This creates a domino effect: once you lose a tooth, the surrounding bone deteriorates even faster. That’s why people with osteoporosis may notice more dental problems, including gum disease and tooth loss.
Some medications that treat osteoporosis can also affect the mouth. Drugs called bisphosphonates, for example, are very effective at slowing bone loss. However, in rare cases, they can lead to a complication called osteonecrosis of the jaw.
This means that the jawbone doesn’t heal properly after dental work, such as extractions. While the risk is low, it’s essential to inform us about any bone-related medications you take, allowing us to adjust your treatment plan safely.
Even if you don’t yet know you have osteoporosis, your mouth may give you some clues. Warning signs include:
If you notice any of these changes, it’s a good idea to schedule an exam. At our office, we use advanced imaging and technology to evaluate bone health in the jaw and recommend next steps.
For patients with missing teeth, dental implants are often the best replacement option because they act like natural tooth roots. However, implants rely on a strong jawbone to stay secure.
If osteoporosis has weakened your jaw, implants may require additional preparation, such as bone grafting, to restore enough support. We specialize in assessing bone health and providing solutions that maximize the long-term success of dental implants.
Fortunately, there are many ways to protect both your bones and your oral health. Here are some steps you can take:
These nutrients are essential for bone strength.
Weight-bearing exercise, such as walking and dancing, helps keep bones strong.
Smoking increases the risk of osteoporosis and gum disease.
Professional exams and cleanings help catch issues early.
Always let us know if you’ve been diagnosed with osteoporosis and are taking medication for it.
Osteoporosis is a silent disease because bone loss happens gradually without pain. However, waiting until a problem arises can make treatment more challenging.
That’s why early diagnosis and prevention are so important. Regular dental checkups don’t just protect your teeth, they can also reveal signs of bone changes that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Managing osteoporosis and its oral effects often requires teamwork. Your physician, dentist, and sometimes specialists like periodontists all play a role.
At our practice, we believe in a collaborative approach. We work closely with your other healthcare providers to make sure your dental treatments align with your overall bone health plan.
Our team combines expertise in dental implants with a deep understanding of how bone health impacts oral health. Whether you’re concerned about osteoporosis, experiencing tooth loss, or exploring implant options, we’re here to guide you toward the best care possible.
Call Advanced Implant Dentistry & MedSpa of North Shore today to arrange a checkup or schedule a consultation by completing the online booking form.
