Osteoporosis is a situation that weakens bones, making them extra more likely to break.
It develops slowly and is commonly solely discovered after a fracture.
Widespread fractures embody:
- Wrist.
- Hip.
- Backbone.
- Ribs.
- Arm.
- Pelvis.
Osteoporosis can even have an effect on the bones within the jaw, which assist your tooth.
How osteoporosis can have an effect on the mouth
If the jawbone turns into weaker, it might result in:
- Free tooth.
- Tooth loss.
- Dentures turning into unfastened or uncomfortable.
Good oral care and common dental visits are particularly essential when you’ve got osteoporosis.
Inform your dentist about your medicine
At all times inform your dentist when you’ve got osteoporosis and checklist all medicines you’re taking.
Some osteoporosis medicines can have an effect on how your jaw heals after sure dental therapies, particularly tooth extractions.
Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ)
A small variety of individuals taking sure osteoporosis medicines could develop a uncommon situation known as osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). This implies a part of the jawbone doesn’t heal correctly and may turn out to be broken.
These medicines are known as antiresorptive medicine. They assist strengthen bones.
They embody tablets akin to:
- Alendronic acid (Fosamax).
- Risedronate (Actonel).
- Ibandronate (Boniva).
- Etidronate (Didronel).
Additionally they embody injections akin to:
- Zoledronic acid (Reclast).
- Ibandronate IV.
- Denosumab (Prolia).
Why this issues for dental therapy
ONJ can generally occur after dental surgical procedure, akin to a tooth extraction.
Due to this:
- Attempt to see a dentist earlier than beginning osteoporosis medicine.
- Have any essential dental therapy accomplished early if doable.
- Inform your dentist earlier than any extractions or surgical procedure.
It isn’t doable to foretell who will develop ONJ, however the threat is low.
How widespread is ONJ?
The danger is determined by the kind of medicine.
- With tablets, ONJ is extraordinarily uncommon.
- With injections, the chance is greater than with tablets however nonetheless uncommon.
Your physician or dentist can focus on your private threat.
Signs of osteonecrosis of the jaw
Contact your dentist or physician urgently if you happen to discover:
- Ache, swelling or an infection within the gums or jaw.
- Gums that don’t heal after therapy.
- Free tooth with out one other clear motive.
- Numbness or a heavy feeling within the jaw.
- Uncovered bone within the mouth.
Early recommendation is essential.
Final reviewed: January 2026
