Bone Loss Normal with Age
Bone loss is a natural part of aging. It can affect all areas of your body, including your jawbone. This weakening can lead to tooth loss and impact your overall health. With that said, the process can be slowed with proper care.
Below is information about age-related bone loss (specifically within the jaw) and ways to maintain your bone health for a strong, healthy smile.
What is Bone Loss and How Does It Affect Your Jawbone?
Bone loss, also known as osteoporosis, is a condition where your bones become weaker and more fragile. This occurs when your body breaks down bone tissue faster than it can replace it. While bone loss can occur throughout the body, age-related bone loss often significantly impacts the jawbone.
Your jawbone provides essential support for your teeth. When bone loss weakens it, your teeth may become loose or even fall out. Additionally, jawbone loss can alter your facial appearance, making your face look sunken or aged. In severe cases, bone loss might increase the risk of fractures or breaks.
Several factors contribute to bone loss, including age, gum disease, tooth loss, smoking, and a lack of calcium and vitamin D. Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet, practicing good oral hygiene, and having regular dental checkups can help minimize the risk of complications from bone loss.
Is Bone Loss Normal with Age?
Yes, some bone loss is a natural part of the aging process. As we get older, our bodies produce less of the hormones responsible for maintaining strong bones. However, there are steps you can take to slow down bone loss and keep your skeleton healthy:
- Eat for Strong Bones: Choose foods rich in calcium like dairy and leafy greens. Vitamin D is also crucial, which is found in fatty fish and eggs. Ensure you're getting enough of these nutrients for optimal bone health.
- Kick the Habits: Smoking and excessive alcohol intake weaken bones and make them more prone to breakage. Limiting or quitting these habits can be a big step towards preserving your bone density.
- Focus on Jawbone Health: Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, can help manage gum disease—a major contributor to jawbone loss.
Remember, it's never too late to make changes for healthier bones!
Reach Out Today
Bone loss may be a natural part of aging, but it doesn't have to significantly affect your smile or the strength of your jawbone. By maintaining a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and stopping harmful habits like smoking, you can help minimize this natural process.
Regular dental checkups are extremely important, as they allow us to catch bone loss in the jaw early, monitor its progress, and recommend solutions to support your oral health. We also may recommend bone grafting if the loss is serious.
If you're concerned about bone health or haven't had a checkup recently, reach out today to schedule an appointment. Let's work together to keep your jawbone strong and your smile healthy for years to come!