Osteoporosis and Oral Health

 

 What is osteoporosis?

 Osteoporosis or a porous bone disease is characterized by reduced density and bone thinning which affects negatively the overall life quality of a person. People suffering from osteoporosis are mostly prone to hand, vertebrae or hip fractures. It is well-known that the spine is our body-bearer; vertebra fracture may lead to humpback, pain in the back, lower back area as well as lower limbs, imbalanced body posture and decreased physical activity.

What are the main causes of osteoporosis?

genetic factors

genetic mutations

menopause

inactive and sedentary lifestyle

endocrinological and hematological diseases

low body weight

medication use (corticosteroids, methotrexate and side effects from other medications)

reduced calcium intake

bad lifestyle habits (alcohol, smoking, increased natrium intake, caffeine etc.) 

Gender-wise, females are more susceptible to osteoporosis due to menopause (period when sex hormones are significantly reduced), bone size i.e bone diameter and reduced physical activity.

How does osteoporosis affect oral health?

Osteoporosis weakens the entire skeletal system in our body, including the facial one. In the upper and lower jaw there is an alveolar bone which serves as a base for teeth attachment. Due to lower density and demineralization caused by osteoporosis, there is a high probability for teeth loosening or falling out. Furthermore, patients suffering from osteoporosis may face complications during dental surgeries and the post recovery process. Worst case scenario – during normal tooth extraction, the jawbone may break.

 What is the recommended daily intake of calcium? 

Calcium daily intake depends on  the age and the sex of a person:

• children from 9 to 18 years old -1300 mg
• women from 25 to 64 years old -1000 mg
• women above 65 years old – 1500 mg
• nursing and pregnant women – 1200-1500 mg
• men up to 65 years old – 1000 mg
• men above 65 years old – 1500 mg

It is essential to keep your skeletal system healthy through balanced food including proteins, vitamins and minerals as well as regular physical activity. Calcium is a mineral present 99% in the bones and 1% is included in formation of blood and other tissues. Calcium deficiency may lead to osteoporosis and arthritis because the body is taking the lack of calcium directly from the bone resources. It is a known fact that calcium and vitamin D go hand in hand. Vitamin D can be synthesized in our bodies through sun rays exposure, yet the daily produced quantity would not be sufficient. The main role of Vitamin D is to transfer sufficient quantities of calcium in the blood and implement it in the bones, teeth and other connective tissues. Regular physical activity, avoiding alcohol, cigarettes and caffeine, have positive impact for patients suffering from osteoporosis.