Biophosphonates and Bone Disease
If you use a bisphosphonate medication like Fosamax, Actonel, Boniva to prevent or treat osteoporosis (a thinning of the bones) or as part of cancer treatment therapy-you should advise your dentist.
In rare instances, some individuals receiving intravenous bisphosphonates for cancer treatment have developed osteonecrosis of the jaw, a rare but serious condition that involves severe loss, or destruction, of the jawbone. More rarely, osteonecrosis of the jawbone has occurred in patients taking oral bisphosphonates.
Most cases of osteonecrosis of the jaw associated with bisphosphonates have been found after major dental procedures such as tooth extraction; however, the condition can also occur spontaneously. Patients currently receiving intravenous bisphosphonates should avoid invasive dental procedures if possible. The risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw in patients using oral bisphosphonates following dental surgery appears to be low.
Because osteonecrosis of the jaw is rare, researchers can not yet predict who, among users, will develop it. The consensus is that good oral hygiene along with regular dental care is the best way to lower your risk of developing osteonecrosis.
Our feelings on the issue are that the benefits of the medication outweigh the risks, so do continue to take them.
Content for this page is presented with information available from the ADA and the American Heart Association