Osteoporosis and broken bones are serious. Broken bones are also called fractures. Broken bones of the spine and hip are linked to an increased chance of death. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), one in two women and one in five men over age 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis. These broken bones can cause problems that affect a person’s quality of life. Some people may never fully recover. To prevent broken bones, many people with low bone density or osteoporosis take one of the medications from a group of drugs called bisphosphones. These medications include alendronate (Foxamax), ibandronate (Boniva), risedronate (Actonel) and zoledronic acid (Reclast).

Recent news reports have alarmed and confused people who take bisphosphonates to prevent or treat osteoporosis. That is because a condition known as osteonecrosis (os-tee-oh-ne-kro-sis) of the jaw (also called ONJ) has been reported in some patients who have taken these medications. Bisphosphonate associated osteonecrosis of the jaw, or BON, is a rare but serious condition that can cause severe damage to the jawbone. BON is diagnosed in a patient: 1) who has an area of exposed bone in the jaw that persists for more than 8 weeks, and 2) who has no history of radiation therapy to the head or neck, and 3) who is taking, or has taken, a bisphosphonate medication.

Tell your dentist if you are prescribed bisphosphonate medication. We will show you good oral hygiene practices, as well as monitor your dental and oral health while you take the medication.