Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Osteonecrosis Osteonecrosis Osteonecrosis is the death of bone cells. Osteonecrosis happens when something, such as a bone injury, interferes with blood supply to a bone Osteonecrosis most often happens after a bone injury... read more is the death of bone cells. Osteonecrosis of the jaw is the death of some cells in your jawbone.

Doctors aren't sure why people get osteonecrosis of the jaw. It can happen for no clear reason. But it's more likely after you've had:

Bisphosphonates are most often taken by mouth to treat thinning bones (osteoporosis Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens your bones. Your bones become thinner and more fragile. This is called a loss of bone density. If you have osteoporosis, your bones break more easily... read more ). Taking them this way doesn't seem to increase risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw. However, high doses given by vein may increase risk, particularly if you then have oral surgery.

Usually you'll have:

Your dentist or oral surgeon can tell whether you have osteonecrosis of the jaw based on your symptoms and an exam. There aren't any tests to confirm osteonecrosis of the jaw.

Before beginning IV bisphosphonate therapy, have a dental examination and get any oral surgery you need done first.

An oral surgeon will treat osteonecrosis of the jaw with:

Doctors don't recommend taking out large areas of damaged bone as it may lead to even worse necrosis.