Hello everyone
Is anyone experiencing dental problems having been on bisphosphonates? I’ve been having Zometa treatments for three years for bone mets since diagnosis. Now I have recurrent gum infections and very painful teeth which make eating difficult. My cutting-edge (very expensive) dentist has always been very dismissive of any cancer treatment including Zometa. He says I need to have two molars extracted and has given me a couple of rounds of penicillin in the meantime. I mentioned this to my oncologist who was horrified and has forbidden me to have any dental work until she has referred me to a colleague specialising in dental oncology. She did confirm that a surprising number of British dentists don’t keep up with the effects of cancer treatment on their patients. In the meantime, while I await the referral, I’m left in no-man’s land, trying not to take too many Ibuprofen or Paracetamol. I know you have to take manic care of your teeth with bisphosphonates so I have invested in a Waterpik (water flosser) as well as all kinds of mouthwashes and potions. I also visit the dental hygienist every month which the oncologist thinks may be counter-productive.
it’s the worst symptom I’ve had since my initial diagnosis and would love to compare notes with anyone in the same position.
Cheers and thanks for reading.
Dear AndersL
I am so sorry that you have not had a reply I have only had a very sore mouth caused by Everolimus my mouth was a mess 11 ulcers and if it wasn’t for my dentist I would have suffered more. Because my problem was reflux acid he adviced me to see my doctor and he told me the symptoms I was getting even to waking up in the night with dry mouths.
I know it is nothing like what you are going through I looked it up and I sympathise for you it must be awful I do hope that someone will see your thread and will have something to help you with this condition. Do let us know how you get on.
Sending you loads of love and (((hugs))) xxx
Hi AndersL. I have been on bisphosphonates for seven years, firstly zometa and now on denosumab. I have two back teeth which should be extracted but the specialist dentist at the hospital has said that if I have them taken out I will probably develop ONJ. Consequently I have tooth infections roughly every two months and have to take a course of strong antibiotics. Along with cancer yreatment, this is really getting to me now but I dont think there is a solution. Sometimes I feel like saying just take my whole jaw iut and build me a new one complete with new soarkling white teeth!!! I really do understand how you feel! Xx
Hi, I have been on Zometa for almost three years. My dentist told me that the first lady to get onj happened to be one of his patients. He has said, that if I need an extraction he will definitely send me to be seen at the hospital to be refeered by the onc to a colleague.
however, last time i went for a check up, he told me that the lady who had onj…her jaw has started to grow back again! I thought that was a wonderful peice of news you might like to hear!.
Moijanxx?