Tooth extraction while taking boniva

Hello Anonymous,

Welcome to EmpowHER. Thank you for reaching out to us with your health issue.

Boniva is used to treat or prevent osteoporosis in women after menopause. It belongs to a group of medicines called bisphosphonates. It alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. It slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures.

Anonymous, did your dentist tell you why you needed to be off Boniva for three months prior to having a tooth extracted?

All that I could find, which might relate to your situation, is that in rare cases, Boniva may cause bone loss (osteonecrosis) in the jaw. Symptoms include jaw pain or numbness, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, or slow healing after dental work. The longer you use Boniva, the more likely you are to develop this condition.

Please consult your physician who prescribed Boniva treatment. There are other drugs, such as Fosamax and Zometa that are in this category. Your physician can best advise you. But, they may also share the same side effect.

Regards,
Maryann