A 75-year-old woman with a background of osteoporosis and previous vertebral fracture is on Alendronic acid 70 mg weekly. She develops dental pain and...

Question

A 75-year-old woman with a background of osteoporosis and previous vertebral fracture is on Alendronic acid 70 mg weekly. She develops dental pain and is told by her dentist that she needs a tooth extraction. She is concerned about her bisphosphonate therapy. What is the MOST important advice regarding bisphosphonates and dental procedures?

Accepted Answer

She should inform her dentist about her bisphosphonate use as there is a small risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ), but the risk with oral bisphosphonates is very low and the procedure can usually proceed with appropriate precautions

Answer

Stop Alendronic acid 6 months before any dental work

Answer

Alendronic acid must be stopped permanently before any dental procedure

Answer

There is no association between bisphosphonates and dental complications

Answer

She should never have dental work done while on bisphosphonates

uk-dgm MCQ (SBA): Bisphosphonates and Osteonecrosis of the Jaw