Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Abstract

Bisphosphonates, like alendronate (Fosamax), risedronate (Actonel and Atelvia), ibandronate (Boniva), zoledronic acid (Reclast) and denosumab (Prolia), may raise ONJ risk. This may be due to loss of bone’s ability to repair itself, a drop in blood vessel formation or infection. While there is a very low risk of ONJ occurring in people taking any of these medications, the risk may be slightly higher in people who require invasive dental procedures, such as a dental extraction or dental implant, if they also take bisphosphonates.