Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them more likely to break.

It develops slowly and is often only found after a fracture.

Common fractures include:

• Wrist.
• Hip.
• Spine.
• Ribs.
• Arm.
• Pelvis.

Osteoporosis can also affect the bones in the jaw, which support your teeth.

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How osteoporosis can affect the mouth

If the jawbone becomes weaker, it may lead to:

• Loose teeth.
• Tooth loss.
• Dentures becoming loose or uncomfortable.

Good oral care and regular dental visits are especially important if you have osteoporosis.

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Tell your dentist about your medication

Always tell your dentist if you have osteoporosis and list all medicines you take.

Some osteoporosis medicines can affect how your jaw heals after certain dental treatments, especially tooth extractions.

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Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ)

A small number of people taking certain osteoporosis medicines may develop a rare condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). This means part of the jawbone does not heal properly and can become damaged.

These medicines are called antiresorptive drugs. They help strengthen bones.

They include tablets such as:

• Alendronic acid (Fosamax).
• Risedronate (Actonel).
• Ibandronate (Boniva).
• Etidronate (Didronel).

They also include injections such as:

• Zoledronic acid (Reclast).
• Ibandronate IV.
• Denosumab (Prolia).

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Why this matters for dental treatment

ONJ can sometimes happen after dental surgery, such as a tooth extraction.

Because of this:

• Try to see a dentist before starting osteoporosis medication.
• Have any necessary dental treatment completed early if possible.
• Tell your dentist before any extractions or surgery.

It is not possible to predict who will develop ONJ, but the risk is low.

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How common is ONJ?

The risk depends on the type of medication.

• With tablets, ONJ is extremely rare.
• With injections, the risk is higher than with tablets but still rare.

Your doctor or dentist can discuss your personal risk.

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Symptoms of osteonecrosis of the jaw

Contact your dentist or doctor urgently if you notice:

• Pain, swelling or infection in the gums or jaw.
• Gums that do not heal after treatment.
• Loose teeth without another clear reason.
• Numbness or a heavy feeling in the jaw.
• Exposed bone in the mouth.

Early advice is important.