Bisphosphonates and dentist

Hello  

I have been to the dentist for the first time since finishing treatment for breast cancer. I am now on Anastrazole for 5 years and was advised to have intravenous bisphosphonates, I believe every 3 or 6 months? to protect my bones as well as Calcium tablets. As Bone loss and osteoporosis can effect the jaw bone I made appointment for dentist and hygienist. The dentist informed me that Bisphosphonates can stay in your body for 11 years! The dentist will not do any cosmetic work or major work without a letter from a Consultant at the Hospital,  as I wanted a silver filling replaced. The dentist told me just to keep up hygienist appointments. I was concerned as a friend has recently had surgery on the jaw caused by breast cancer medication. Any views on this? 
Silver 

  • Hi Silver,

    I can understand your concerns here - it's not something I've come across before though so I'm not best placed to advise, but just wanted to send a reply. Perhaps it's worth speaking to your consultant about this if you are able to. Equally if you'd like to talk through with our nurses at all, you can reach them on 0808 800 4040 - Monday-Friday, 9-5.

    All the best and I hope you're able to get this sorted soon,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi,

     

    I refused to take the bisphosphonates because of the risks.  When I checked on the NHS predict site, it said that in my case they would only increase my possible longevity by one percent and that didn't seem a good enough return for the risk involved. 
    I am on Letrozole and I take the Calcium and Vitamin D tablets and hope for the best.

     

    Christine xxx

  • Thank you for replying, I shall ring the nurses to get more info about the side effects of bisphosphonates.

    Silver