According to a new study from the University of Buffalo, available in the June 2007 Journal of Periodontology, postmenopausal women infected with four species of periodontal bacteria were more likely to have oral bone loss, even after adjusting for smoking, age and income.

Osteoporosis is a common metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mass and fragility, especially for postmenopausal women. Although the condition primarily affects women, it also occurs in men and is commonly associated with a decrease in bone mineral density.

The study supports the findings of previous research that identified an association between post-menopausal osteoporosis and tooth loss, along with alveolar bone loss. Based on current estimates, more than 10 million Americans over the age of 50 have osteoporosis, and nearly 34 million individuals are at risk. In addition, more than one million bone fractures each year are associated with osteoporosis.

A growing body of evidence suggests a potential association between periodontal disease and osteoporosis, but the extent of this relationship remains unclear. Periodontal disease and oral bone loss can progress over time, and further population-based studies are needed to develop an improved understanding of the relationship between osteoporosis, periodontal disease and oral bone loss.

Patients should be aware that osteoporosis has several modifiable risk factors, including smoking, inadequate dietary calcium and estrogen deficiency. While dentists closely monitor the periodontal health and oral bone loss in their patients, continuing research is necessary to identify patients at the highest risk for oral bone loss, and may also lead to more accurate screening and diagnostic methods.

Patients suspected of being at risk for osteoporosis - based on medical history, including risk factors, and results of clinical and X-ray examination - should be referred to their primary-care physician for a complete health assessment.

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