
How Long Is It Safe To Wait For Decayed Molar Removal When On Alendronate?

Question: I have been on alendronate 75 mg once weekly for 6 months. I stopped this medication 3 weeks ago when my dentist informed me that I need to have 3 molars removed due to decay. I am planning on waiting for as long as I can but can you tell me how long this should be before I have surgery to remove these teeth.
Brief answer...given below
Detailed answer...
Hello,
Thanks for the query.
Although the chances of developing osteonecrosis of jaw following a dental work in people taking alendroate is very less and is rare,but the guidelines suggest that anybody taking the alendroate for less than 3 years can stop the medicine 3-4 weeks prior to the surgery,while a person who has taken alendroate for more than 3 years should discontinue the alendroate 3 months before dental surgery.
For you a period of maximum 4 weeks is more than enough to be on safe side.
I hope it helps however you may revert to me for any further query.
Best of luck
Thanks
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

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