In Canada, more than two million people are affected by osteoporosis. This disease weakens the bone structure, thereby increasing the risk of fractures.
Menopausal women are more at risk of developing osteoporosis
Menopause leads to a decrease in estrogen production, which results in a loss of bone tissue. This loss is calculated at a rate of 2-5% per year over 10 years. This is quite alarming!
Men are also affected by osteoporosis
Did you know that at least one in five men will break a bone from osteoporosis? For a long time, osteoporosis was considered a woman’s disease, but this is no longer the case. It is a serious health issue for men as well.
Since osteoporosis affects all the bones of the body, the jawbones are not spared. Both in women and men, a fragile bone structure can have a real impact on the strength of your teeth and the health of your mouth.
Significant consequences on oral health
This condition gradually causes teeth to loosen and can create spaces between them resulting in weakened teeth that sometimes even may fall out.
The stability of the denture can also be affected, as well as its effectiveness, if bone loss occurs in the jaw. Many patients have also mentioned pain. This is a problem that needs to be treated quickly.
Good habits to adopt
Osteoporosis is primarily a disease related to age and hormonal changes; heredity and certain illnesses can also be culprits. This also holds true of certain lifestyle habits that should be modified.
The good news is that it is possible to reduce the risk of osteoporosis using preventive measures. Adopting a healthy lifestyle can really have an impact on reducing the risk of developing osteoporosis or worsening its effects, if you have it already. Here are some habits to focus on:
– Get regular physical activity;
– Eat a diet rich in calcium;
– Choose foods rich in vitamin D;
– Reduce your salt intake;
– Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, tobacco and coffee;
– Visit your dentist at least once a year to prevent dental problems related to bone demineralization.
Talking about it for better treatment
If prevention is the best way to fight against this disease, adapted treatments exist to relieve the symptoms.
Do you have osteoporosis and are you experiencing dental-related health issues? Talk it over with your dentist; he or she will be able to guide you to the right product or treatment.
If your problems are beyond the scope of your dentist or denturist, he or she will refer you to a specialist.
Whatever the situation, feel free to talk about it!
The Team at Lapointe Dental Centres
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