periodontal disease
The Surprising Link Between Gum Disease and Bone Loss
Periodontal disease is a progressive infection that damages the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. It’s the leading cause of adult tooth loss and starts when plaque bacteria cause inflammation in the gums. Left untreated, the infection spreads deeper, eventually breaking down jawbone tissue and loosening teeth.
Osteoporosis is a common condition—especially in postmenopausal women—that causes bones to become weak and brittle due to reduced bone mass and mineral density. Research suggests a strong connection between osteoporosis and periodontal disease, particularly in women after menopause.
In fact, a study from the University of New York at Buffalo found that postmenopausal women with osteoporosis were 86% more likely to develop periodontal disease.