Brushing Up Blog

Osteoporosis

11-18-15

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases in the United States more than 53 million people either already have osteoporosis or are at high risk due to low bone mass. Osteoporosis is a disease that reduces the density and quality of the bone making it more brittle and at greater risk for fracture. Often there are no symptoms of this disease until a fracture occurs. There are a number of effective medications being used for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis including: Fosamax, Actonel, Boniva, and Reclast. These medications along with a healthy diet have had great success in controlling the progression of Osteoporosis in many individuals.

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So are you wondering why a dental office needs to know if you have osteoporosis and what medication you have been prescribed? Quite simply the jaw bone and all of its surrounded tissues can be affected. Although the disease typically affects more women than men, it doesn’t change that it can weaken and damage the jaw bone as well as trigger periodontal disease and tooth loss. We recommend that our patients maintain regular dental visits and necessary x-rays to monitor the health of the bone. Make sure to update your health history and discuss any medications you are currently taking with your dental health professional. And, report any problems with loose teeth, detached or receding gums, and loose or ill-fitting dentures to your dentist and doctor.

Until next time,

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