Osteoporosis detected by oral health

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Osteoporosis detected by oral health

United Press International

Thursday, June 10, 2004

CHICAGO -- Oral health problems, such as loose teeth and gum disease, can

help detect osteoporosis early, a report by the U.S. Academy of General

Dentistry

said.

Most people with osteoporosis are not diagnosed until they break a bone.

" Early osteoporosis signs can be seen in the mouth, " wrote report author

Aida

Chohayeb. " When the dentist observes that some teeth are loose, the gums are

not attached to the teeth, and that dentures do not fit well, dental X-rays

will be taken to confirm the diagnosis. "

Osteoporosis, a disease that decreases bone density and weakens bones,

affects 10 million people, and more than one-third of women over age 65

display

symptoms.

Patients with osteoporosis should practice good oral hygiene, maintain

regular dental check-ups -- every three to four months -- consume calcium

and

vitamin D and weight train, researchers said.

Copyright 2004 by United Press International.

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_18316.html