Osteoporosis in Houston, TX
40,000,000
People
Either already suffer from Osteoporosis or are at risk for developing it.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis means “porous bone.” Normal human bone looks like a honeycomb, but bones affected by osteoporosis have holes and spaces that are much bigger. This means the bones have lost density or mass. As bones become less dense, they become weaker and more brittle making the simplest chores like picking up a newspaper potentially hazardous. Something like picking up a child or even sneezing could cause a break.
Bones are living tissue and are constantly being absorbed and replaced. Osteoporosis occurs when the body cannot create new bone quickly enough to keep up with the removal of old bone. Osteoporosis can affect any bone in the human body, including the jawbone. It can occur in men and women, but it most often occurs in Caucasian women over the age of 65.
How does osteoporosis affect my oral health?
Steps toward healthy bones
Preserving the health of your bones is vital to your overall and oral health. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that you have optimal bone health:
- Eat a balanced diet rich with vitamin D and calcium.
- Exercise regularly. Weight-bearing activities like walking, jogging, dancing, and weight training are best for keeping bones strong.
- Do not smoke; limit alcohol consumption.
- Report any issues with loose teeth, detached or receding gums, or ill-fitting dentures to your dentist immediately.
