A recent analysis from the Women’s Health Initiative, a 15-year prospective longitudinal study on disease risk factors in US postmenopausal women, has suggested that systemic bone status and alveolar bone loss may be linked. Data gathered over 3 years indicates that women with osteoporosis may show significantly progressive alveolar bone loss and even greater loss with pre-existing periodontal disease. While the data will be reviewed long-term, this could influence tooth replacement strategies with implants and their potential for survival. Osteoporosis therapies such as hormone replacement and use of bisphosphonates might lead to fewer lost teeth but have some risks attached. Another strategy in maintaining bone health is to increase daily calcium and vitamin D to their optimal levels. For most adults, 1,000 mg of calcium and 10 to 15 µg of vitamin D are the recommended dosages. Vitamin D levels can be assisted with daily skin exposure to the sun, but calcium must be added either through diet or in pill form. A balance between the 2 is critical, especially in the elderly who may not get enough of either. Fortified cereals, cheese, yogurt, sardines, canned salmon, and fortified milk are the most reliable food sources for both calcium and vitamin D. Online resources such as iofbonehealth.org and mypyramid.org can be used to track daily intake and obtain information to assist with patient care and personal nutrition.
(Source: The Oral Care Report, Volume 18, Number 2, 2008)
