Zometa and Osteonecrosis

Spicedlife I would highly recommend that you meet with your regular dentist, and then a specialist to discuss how to approach a potential tooth extraction while on Zometa monthly. I know that a lot of dental surgeons would want a period of no infusion activity before attempting extraction in order to reduce the risk of osteonecrosis. This may require a coordinated effort between your MO and your dental surgeon in order to provide you the most successful outcome.

I was researching this a lot because I had a tooth that needed work and I am due to start Reclast (which is a lower dosing regimen for osteoporosis) . My dental surgeon said he could do extractions safely three months after an infusion if need be. However, reclast taken every six months is obviously not the same dosing level as Zometa taken monthly. You will need to find a professional to help you set up a plan of attack. So very very sorry you have this worry on top of everything else. These drugs just do a number on us don't they? Hugs

hi there, I was on Xgeva for bone Mets which has the same risk of osteonecrosis as zometa.

I lost a crown in the front of my mouth which required an extraction and I wanted an implant

I had been on Xgeva approx two years at that time. The surgeon wanted me to be off Xgeva for six months before and six months after the procedure. My MO had also said, at least three months.

I wound up starting the work a little before the six months was up and I haven't gone back on Xgeva because I need more work done. My implant in the front is finished and it all worked out fine, no problems. So far, no osteonecrosis.

I never had any fractures or anything from my Mets and I've been NED for awhile, so I am okay with taking a long break from Xgeva. My doctor wants me to go back on but I want my teeth fixed more than I want to go back on Xgeva.

I had lost a bridge in the back at the start of chemo and couldn't have that fixed so I am trying to play catch up now.

If your doctor okays it and you feel brave enough..you might want to go for it. I am not Pooh-poohing the risks involved but women who don't get dental work can als wind up with ONJ, so...the risk is still present as long as we are on the drugs.