Fosamax-type drugs

Low prevalence of necrotic jaw bone in patients that take drugs for osteoporosis.

Dr. Richard Wynn is Professor of Pharmacology at the University of Maryland Dental School and he recently reviewed two studies related to the dental risks posed to women that take Fosamax, or drugs that are similar, to treat osteoporosis. The finding show that for the millions of patients taking these drugs, there were very few (26 cases worldwide) that showed a relationship to the oral medication and jaw bone necrosis.

A second study from the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery showed that patients that take oral bisphosphonates are no more at risk of implant or bone graft failure than other patients.

We will always consult with your physician and the oral surgeon to assess your particular condition, but this is good news for women taking these important medications.