Because you are taking a type of drug called a bisphosphonate, you may be at risk for developing osteonecrosis of the jaw and certain dental treatments may increase that risk. You should understand that the risk for developing this condition is very small. The following provides you with some additional information about dental treatment for patients taking oral bisphosphonates. What is osteonecrosis of the jaw? Bone is a living tissue with living cells and a blood supply. Osteonecrosis means death of bone which can occur from the loss of the blood supply or by a problem with the bone’s ability to re-grow. Individuals that have received INRAVENOUS bisphosphonates, usually in conjunction with cancer chemotherapy, have an increased risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw. Very rarely, osteonecrosis of the jawbone has occurred in individuals taking oral bisphosphonates for treatment of osteoporosis or Paget’s disease of bone. Dental treatments that involve the bone can make the condition worse. What is the risk for developing osteonecrosis of the jaw? Your risk for developing osteonecrosis of the jaw, from using oral bisphosphonates, is very small (estimated at less than one person per 100,000 people, after years of exposure to the drugs Fosamax, Actonel or Boniva); but, if it does occur, it may be a serious condition with no known treatment so you should be aware of this complication. At this time, there is no way to determine who will develop the condition. However, the condition is rare and has just recently been associated with the use of oral bisphosphonates. It is important for you to understand that other factors may play a role in the development of osteonecrosis, such as other medications you are taking and health problems that you may have. Should I stop taking the oral bisphosphonate? The benefits of reducing hip fractures and other complications associated with osteoporosis can be very important. Dr. Bender cannot advise you about these benefits. You should talk with your physician if you have any questions. Also, it has not been shown that stopping use of the drug will decrease your risk for developing osteonecrosis. What are the risks associated with dental procedures? Although the risk is low with any procedure, it is higher with procedures involving the bone and associated tissues, such as tooth extractions or periodontal surgery. Dr. Bender will be able to tell you if the procedure will involve these tissues. How can I decrease my risk of developing osteonecrosis of the jaw? Maintaining good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent oral diseases that may require dental surgery. What are the signs and symptoms of osteonecrosis of the jaw? You should tell Dr. Bender immediately if you have any of the following symptoms, now or in the months following treatment:
• feeling of numbness, heaviness or other sensations in your jaw
What other choices do I have if I do not have the procedure? Your treatment options depend on the oral health condition that you have. Dr. Bender will be able to discuss treatment options with you. Risks associated with not having the procedure. Your risk for developing osteonecrosis of the jaw is very small. You may be at increased risk for developing other health problems if a dental disease is not treated. Dr. Bender will be able to discuss alternative treatments, other risks associated with various treatment options, and the risk of no treatment, even temporarily. You should also consult with your treating physician about any health risks. I certify that I have fully read and understand the above. Signature of Patient/Parent/Guardian: ___________________________________________________Date: ________________
Analgesics Fact Sheet Group 1: Traditional pain medications (called analgesics) These can be tried for usual acute pain or nociceptive pain, inflammatory pain and some of these might help neuropathic pain. Paracetamol Paracetamol is available from pharmacies as tablets, liquid mixtures, or suppositories. Often paracetamol is the sole chemical, but it is also used in o Paracetamol
BCHS pen pals from France come to city for two-week stay BRISTOL -- Twenty-three students from the town of La Queue Lez Yvelines, France have made their way across the Atlantic Ocean for a two-week stay with their pen pals from Bristol Central High School. "For most of my students this is the first time they have been to the United States," said Gael Manescau, one of the teacher
PATIENTS TAKING ORAL BISPHOSPHONATES