Are you taking one of the bone building drugs such as Boniva(R), Fosomax(R), Actonel(R), or Anedia(R)? If you are then you should be aware of the possible negative effects on your oral health. One severe side effect linked to these drugs is osteonecrosis which is dying bone which effects the jaw.
Healthy adults who take the oral medicine have a very low risk of developing a jaw complication, however, if you are under IV administration of the drug or have other health complications such as chemotherapy, history of multiple mylenoma or Paget's disease you are at increased risk. It is critical to avoid Dental Surgery, Tooth Extractions, and Dental Infection regardless of whether you are taking the above mentioned drugs in oral or IV form.
In order to prevent dental infections careful routine dental cleanings are a must as well as excellent home care practices. Any removable appliances (Partial or Complete Dentures) should be checked regularly by your dentist to avoid sore spots.
If you or a loved one will be needing any IV treatment with one of these bisphosphanate drugs or with Chemotherapy, it is ideal to see your dentist for a thourough exam first. Any extensive procedures should be done prior to starting IV therapy.
