Oral health is an important and often overlooked component of an adult’s general health and well-being. We all know the basics of brushing and flossing but few realize the connection between oral health and serious diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes and heart disease. Researchers have found that people with periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth, are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease.
Osteoporosis Can Impact Your Oral Health
Women with osteoporosis are three times more likely to experience tooth loss than those who do not have the disease. Osteoporosis can make your teeth more brittle and susceptible to breakages and when the jawbone becomes less dense, tooth loss can occur. Frequent dental visits may lead to the first clue you have osteoporosis, since dental x rays may reveal early stages of the disease. Dental warning signs of osteoporosis include:
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Dentures that don’t fit well
In addition to the direct impact of osteoporosis on the teeth, osteoporosis treatments, may lead to jaw necrosis – severe destruction of the jawbones. Although it is a rare occurrence, bisphosphonates, a group of medicines commonly prescribed for the treatment of osteoporosis, have been linked to development of osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). The drugs in the bisphosphonate class include Fosamax, Actonel and Boniva. So if you are taking an oral bisphosphonate, it is important to inform your dentist.
A Spot of Tea for Your Teeth
In addition to the many other proposed benefits of green tea, a recent study demonstrated a lower instance of periodontal disease in subjects who regularly drank green tea. So in addition to the basics of brushing and flossing, support your oral health and general health with a spot of green tea.
