Periodontal Disease and Osteoporosis
A link has been found between osteoporosis and loss of bone in the jaw. Because osteoporosis results in decreased bone density, the jaw can be affected. If the bone in the jaw loses density, the teeth will not have a strong support system, which can contribute to tooth loss.
Periodontal disease can also cause loss of teeth. Inflammation and infection in the gums destroys tissue and bone, resulting in a loosening of the teeth. So osteoporosis and periodontal disease both play a part in creating conditions where teeth can be lost. There has even been a question regarding whether the two conditions are related, but it is hard to determine as both have risk factors that are similar.
Doctors prescribe biphosphonates to treat osteoporosis and cancer that has traveled to the bone. But one side effect of biphosphonates is osteonecrosis, which is a debilitating condition that can cause severe damage to the jaw.
If a dental patient is having intravenous biphosphonates treatment for cancer that has affected the bone, the periodontist must know about this treatment, as invasive dental procedures, such as dental implants, should be avoided during this type of therapy. If dental treatments can be rendered before intravenous biphosphonates therapy has begun, that would be best.
It is important for osteoporosis to be treated appropriately, and periodontal disease also must be addressed in order to prevent tooth loss. Whether these conditions are linked or not, they both can cause extensive damage to the bone structure in the jaw.