Bisphosphonates
Are you taking medication for osteoporosis?
Bisphosphonates are part of a family of drugs used to prevent and treat osteoporosis. Currently, four bisphosphonates have been approved in Canada: alendronate (Fosamax® and other generics), etidronate (Didocral®), lerisedronate (Actonel®), zoledronic acid (Aclasta®) and desonumab (Prolia® ).
It is recommended to have a dental examination before starting this medical treatment
If a person needs to take these medications for a long time, it is recommended to have a dental examination before starting this medical treatment. Taking bisphosphonates presents significant risks during dental treatment and surgery. While taking the medication, it would be important to visit a dentist more frequently. Your dentist may contact your doctor or he may ask you to stop taking medication for a few months if you need dental surgery.
Taking the bisphosphonate is controversial because there can be side effects like:
Osteonecrosis is the death of a bone caused by a lack of blood supply to the area. Osteonecrosis of the part of the jaw below the teeth is a side effect of some bisphosphonates. Manifestations of osteonecrosis are seen in highly vascularized bony regions such as the maxilla and mandible (upper and lower jaw).
Osteonecrosis can cause :
- tooth mobility (loosening)
- gum problems
- jaw pain
- jaw loss
