Bone health and oral health.

BACKGROUND

Low bone mass in the skeleton, which increases the risk of osteoporotic fracture, also may be associated with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss. Osteoporosis and periodontal disease share several common risk factors, including older age, smoking and perhaps insufficient dietary intakes of calcium and vitamin D.

CONCLUSION

Research supports the idea that osteoporosis independently influences alveolar bone height loss. Strategies for reducing osteoporosis risk also may help retard alveolar bone loss. Meeting dietary intake recommendations for calcium and vitamin D is one strategy that is appropriate for a broad segment of the population.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: A healthy lifestyle has multiple benefits for the mouth and throughout the body. Dental professionals can play a role in preventing osteoporosis by reinforcing this message.