Could treating periodontitis prevent osteoporosis? An update of the last decade.

Chronic periodontitis and osteoporosis are both systemic diseases, characterized by bone resorption. Over the last decade, their correlation has been examined closely, mainly to investigate whether they present a risk factor or an indicator for each other. It is their pathogenetic similarities, their numerous common risk factors and their frequent concomitant development that initiated researchers' interest in the precise association between these two maladies. The present review is aiming to analyse this correlation, laying emphasis on the effects of periodontal status on the skeletal bone mineral density, as suggested by the latest studies. It will also attempt to clarify whether periodontal management could influence the progression or the onset of osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]