Dentists issue warning on bone density drugs

PATIENTS given drugs to treat cancer and other bone-weakening diseases are at an increased risk of developing serious jawbone complications, dentists have warned.

Many patients in Ireland are treated with bisphosphonates and the Irish Dental Association is advising that prevention of a condition known as osteonecrosis of the jaw is vital.

In particular, patients are urged to have any dental treatment carried out before starting the therapy as dental surgery exacerbates osteonecrosis of the jaw.