Patients who consider taking a bisphosphonates may be concerned about osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). ONJ is a rare condition that affects the ability of the bone in the jaw to heal properly.
A research team at Kaiser Permanente published a study after surveying over 13,000 patients in Northern California about the possible presence of ONJ. Among the 8,000 who returned the survey, ONJ was detected in 0.10% of patients, occurring mostly in patients who had been on the medication for more than four years. Given the overall rarity of ONJ, the presence of this condition is more common among bisphosphonate users, but still quite uncommon, particularly compared with much higher fracture risk among those prescribed with bisphosphonates.
If you are taking a bisphosphonate, it is recommended that you practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. Symptoms of ONJ include oral discomfort, mouth sores, loose teeth, and poor healing after tooth extraction or dental surgery.
