Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis of the Jaws

Osteoporosis is a bone disease affecting mostly older women.  Our bones normally go through a continual process of breaking down and reforming.  However, with osteoporosis, bone formation lags behind bone breakdown.  Consequently, bones become porous and fragile.  Familiar signs of this problem include the back that arches forward and the fractured hips and wrists suffered by older individuals.

How does this disease affect oral health?  As the jawbone loses its density, there eventually may not be enough bone to support the teeth, resulting in tooth mobility and loss.  In this weakened state, the jaw can also be easily fractured.

Early preventative measures can be the key to reducing the risks of osteoporosis.  Eating a calcium rich diet and getting regular weight bearing exercise throughout life may be the best actions you can take for your bones.