If you caught our last Fosamax post, you may be interested in some of the other known culprits when it comes to oral health (aka dead bone disease or MROMJ).
Again, this is NOT meant to be scary or to have you stop taking your medications. That can only be done if your blood work and medical professional sanctions it! Its meant to inform and educate about medications and their effects on women over 50.
Common Osteoporosis Medications are:
BRAND NAME: GENERIC NAME:
Fosamax Alendranate
Prolia Denosumab
Boniva. Ibandronate
Actunel Risedronate
Reclast Zoledronic
BE aware of potential side-effects that could cause “Dead Jaw Bone”. Be sure to ask lots of questions and be assertive when chatting with your medical professional. Discuss THESE drugs IN DETAIL PRIOR to starting the medications. These medications are normally prescribed after a bone density scan or a DEXA test. Funny story, at 65 I was told I needed to get my DEXA scan done. I dutifully went down the hall and had the scan. I asked a lot of questions and when I asked what they were measuring this scan against, I was told that my current skeleton was being measured and compared to my 25 year old skeleton! I laughed SO hard they had to re-do the scan. I said “I can tell you its NOT going to look the same and save my insurance company $650…..” The tech saw very little humor in my behavior.
What they are looking for is a “baseline” of your bone density. They will measure all future scans against the first one and see how quickly your bones are declining (or staying at the same level).
Anyway, if your dentist or dental health provider sees anything suspicious, they may ask you to take a “drug holiday”. Now, of course, I’m thinking that this is something like a “Tequila Trip” or “Food Holiday”….not even close. It simply means that your medical provider would have you stop your medication for a set period of time so that the decline in gum tissue could be treated (medications or surgically).
Take Home: Be vigilent about your medical and dental care. And, if something feels wrong or off – seek help. Don’t let things get out of control. Your know best when you need help.
Be your own best advocate – don’t just accept medications, ask questions, read, reach out for 2nd opinions! It’s your body and your life. Be assertive!