Having a tooth removed, for most people, is a fairly straightforward procedure—albeit unpleasant. The procedure itself is carried out with medication to ensure it's pain-free, but the recovery period can be a little uncomfortable. For most people, discomfort and the inability to eat hard foods for a short while is all they need to be concerned with. Usually, pain medication will be given to ease a patient's journey through recovery, making any discomfort bearable. For post-menopausal women with osteoporosis, the concerns and journey through recovery are more arduous. Read on to find out why.

What is Osteoporosis?

The literal meaning of osteoporosis is porous bones. It's a condition that weakens the bones and results in reduced strength and a greater risk of fractures and breaks. There is a direct relationship between the loss of oestrogen during menopause and osteoporosis. Therefore, it usually affects women over 50 more than men. 

How Does Osteoporosis Affect the Mouth?

Osteoporosis can have a huge impact on the section of the jaw that supports the teeth. Women with this condition have a greater likelihood of tooth loss than women without it. In addition to tooth loss, women can suffer tooth mobility and problems with dentures. The lack of bone density in sufferers may also make them more susceptible to infections that lead to periodontal tissue destruction. 

What Are the Concerns of Dental Procedures and Tooth Extractions?

The concerns for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis are that their low-density jawbones can make the results of oral surgery procedures less than desirable. 

The concern with tooth extractions is that the bone may not heal as quickly or well as it would in somebody without the condition. This is a far greater concern with women who are taking medication (such as bisphosphonates) to treat their osteoporosis. This medication, while helping to increase bone density and reduce bone loss, leaves women at risk of the painful and disfiguring jaw condition known as ONJ (osteonecrosis of the jaw).

ONJ is rare, affecting on average 1 in every 200 patients. It affects patients who have had a tooth extraction while using this medication. 

For this reason, it is important to tell your dentist about your condition and any medications you are using. Your dentist may refer you to a dental surgeon who has experience dealing with patients with osteoporosis. They will know how to extract the tooth while reducing the chances of ONJ.