Patient Education
Bone Medications and Dental Implants: What to Tell Your Periodontist
By Dr. Travis W. Mize, DMD, MHS, Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology
If you take, or have ever taken, a medication for osteoporosis, it is one of the most important things to tell us before an extraction, bone graft or dental implant. Because these drugs are often taken only once a month, once every few months or once a year, many patients forget to list them. Here is why they matter and what we need to know.
Which Medications Are We Talking About?
Bone medications are prescribed to strengthen bones in patients with or at risk for osteoporosis, most often women from their 50s onward. Common examples include Fosamax (alendronate), Boniva and Prolia. Please tell us about any medication taken for bone density, by pill, injection or infusion, even if you stopped years ago.
Why They Matter for Dental Surgery
These medications change how bone remodels and heals. Before surgery such as an extraction or implant, they can lead to poor healing and, in some cases, osteonecrosis of the jaw, which can cause extensive damage to the jaw bone. Knowing your history lets Dr. Mize modify your treatment to keep you safe.
What We Need to Know
- Which bone medication you take or have taken
- How long you have taken it
- How often you take it, for example monthly, every six months or yearly
- Your prescribing physician’s name, so we can coordinate care
Our online new patient paperwork includes a separate form that lists these drugs by both brand and generic name, so you can simply check yes or no. If you check yes, we will ask a few follow-up questions and contact your physician as needed.
Will I Need a Drug Holiday?
Sometimes. Depending on the medication and how long you have taken it, Dr. Mize may recommend a drug holiday, a planned break from the medication before surgery. This is always coordinated with your physician, and the break can last up to a year or more.
Age Is Rarely the Barrier
Patients often ask whether they are too old for implants. The first implant patient Dr. Mize treated in residency was 92 years old. Your overall health and medical history matter far more than your age, which is why a complete medication list is so important.
Watch Dr. Mize Explain
Patient Questions
Bone Medications and Implants: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get dental implants if I take Fosamax or Prolia?
Often, yes, but Dr. Mize needs to know about it before treatment. These medications can affect healing, so he may adjust your treatment plan and coordinate with your physician.
Why do bone medications matter for dental surgery?
Osteoporosis medications can interfere with how the jaw bone heals after an extraction or implant. In some cases this can lead to osteonecrosis, serious damage to the jaw bone. Knowing your history lets Dr. Mize plan treatment safely.
Will I need to stop my bone medication before an implant?
Sometimes. Dr. Mize may recommend a drug holiday, a planned break from the medication, but only with your physician’s approval. The break can last up to a year or more depending on the drug and how long you have taken it.
Am I too old for dental implants?
Age alone rarely rules out implants. The first implant patient Dr. Mize treated in residency was 92 years old. Your overall health and medical history matter more than your age.
Thinking About Dental Implants?
Dr. Mize will review your medical history and build a safe treatment plan with you. Referrals are appreciated but not required.
