Hi, I used to post on this site, but some 5 years later I would like to talk about bisphosphonates.

Shortly after my 6 months of chemo (last 3 months with Paclitaxol - and I can't fault that despite a few problems [and a knowledge of Latin and some tree names...]) plus a minor op and a few weeks of radiotherapy, I was put onto a course of bisphosphonates. I was advised that I should see my dentist as any major work (e.g. extractions) should be done before commencing. I did, and the dentist advised 5 (or 6) extractions. This was early 2020 and I agreed (stupidly as I now think). As we know, Covid hit a little later in 2020 and I was immediately put onto the shielding list, I finally saw a dentist late 2020/early 2021 who referred me to a hospital, months went by and I heard nothing. Contact again and was referred to another hospital. More than 4 years have passed, during which I have had my 2 front teeth drilled away to pegs to take a top set, a set of false lower jaw teeth anchored around a 40-year old crown which was dislodged (and later the remains of the old tooth drilled away) . Yet I am still told that bisphosphonates have a lasting effect...

So my question is - What is the advice about bisphosphonates actually aimed at? Theoretically, as I understand it, as a bone strengthener. But can also cause necrosis of the jaw? 

Science.please (she lisphed)

D xx