Know risks of bisphosphonates to avoid serious health problems A study to be published in the October issue of the Journal of Endodontics (JOE), suggests millions of patients using drugs to manage osteoporosis (bisphosphonates) are at risk of experiencing a painful, disfiguring condition known as osteonecrosis of the jaw.
Initial symptoms include burning, tingling or localized pain in the jaw, and may lead to more serious complications such as infections and jawbone degeneration. Patients who think they may be experiencing symptoms of necrosis of the jaw should seek counsel from their general dentist, endodontist or oral surgeon.
The article suggests that problems in patients using bisphosphonates may be triggered a tooth extraction, or simply may occur spontaneously in certain patients. The article also identifies ways for dental professionals to treat oral health problems in patients taking bisphosphonates without precipitating osteonecrosis of the jaw or exacerbating the condition in current sufferers.
Interview
Opps: Dr. Ken Hardgreaves, official spokesperson and journal editor is available for interviews
Additional
Information:
Bisphosphonates are a family of drugs used to prevent and treat osteoporosis. They help strengthen bone and prevent fractures in the hip, spine and other skeletal regions by inhibiting bone loss. Adding to the number of people who use bisphosphonates are women who have ceased using hormone replacement therapy (HRT). In fact, a study in the January 7, 2004 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association estimated that the number of American women who receive hormone replacement therapy (HRT) prescriptions decreased from 91 million prescriptions in 2001 to 57 million in 2003. Some – and perhaps many – of these women may have exchanged HRT with bisphosphonates.
American Association of Endodontists
The American Association of Endodontists, headquartered in Chicago, represents more than 6,600 members worldwide, including approximately 95 percent of all eligible endodontists in the United States. The Association, founded in 1943, is dedicated to excellence in the art and science of endodontics and to the highest standard of patient care. The Association inspires its members to pursue professional advancement and personal fulfillment through education, research, advocacy, leadership, communication and service. For more information, visit the AAE Web site at
www.aae.org.
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