Dental Effects of Fosamax

Fosamax is a bisphosphonate, a drug that prevents the loss of bone mass, used to treat osteoporosis. 55 percent of people living in the United States aged 50 or older have osteoporosis or low bone mass. Patients taking Fosamax may have jawbone problems. Patients with jawbone problems may also experience infection and delayed healing after teeth are pulled.

Prevention

• The National Osteoporosis Foundation cites maintaining a healthy lifestyle and building strong bones are the best preventative methods anyone can apply to their life. Although there are treatments such as Fosamax, there is currently no cure for osteoporosis.

Treatment

• Fosamax works within patients by reducing the activity if cells that cause bone loss, while increasing the amount of bone. Accelerated by menopause, bones weaken with age. Fasomax works to reduce the rapid rate of bone loss that occurs after menopause.

Dental

• Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) commonly occurring with tooth extraction or local infection has been reported by the American Food and Drug Administration in patients taking bisphosphonates (Fosamax).

Warning

• The American Food and Drug Administration also advises patients receiving Fosamax therapy to receive care by an oral surgeon if osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) develops. Dental surgery may increase the severity of the condition.

Success

• Fosamax cites the success of the drug at ninety-six percent of patients increased or maintained bone mass.