<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

I don't like to be the bearer of bad news and I've fought with myself for
days before decidiing to post this.  But, I feel an obligation to share
something with the group that will apply to many of us since CD can be
linked to osteoporosis.  This week my dentist told me research results are
beginning to surface showing that heavy, long term use of anti-osteoporosis
drugs can cause serious problems in the bones, if the bones are disturbed.
She explained to me that these drugs work by implanting themselves deep in
the bone tissue & preventing it's natural cycle of breakdown & rebuilding.
This natural cycle, called remodeling, is the body's way of keeping bones
healthy, flexible and "new" throughout our life spans.  She said the
cessation of bone remodeling caused by long term use of these drugs can
eventually result can be bone necrosis -- bone death.  Once bone tissue
dies, it cannot regrow if cut or broken.

She further explained that a traumatic disturbance in the bone such as
occurs in a tooth extraction, a surgery or a fracture can be devasting
because the bone will not heal.  She said she actually knows some oral
surgeons & dentists who are now refusing to perform dental procedures such
as routine tooth extractions on patients who have used these drugs for long
term or in high doses, especially by IV administration.  These surgeons &
dentists don't want to risk injury to necrotic bone tissue in the jaw bones,
so needed dental procedures are not done.  She also explained that it's very
unfortunate because the elderly typically need extensive dental procedures.

She believes that many MDs may be poorly informed of the long term risks of
using these drugs because they tend to ignore research that involves the
mouth.  So this could mean that many MDs are unaware of the long term risks
of anti-osteoporosis therapy.

It is not my intention to frighten anyone who may be using these drugs.  I
only want to share information that may help you make an informed choice.  I
am not qualified to advise anyone on the safe administration of
anti-osteoporosis drugs.  This is an issue you must discuss with your
doctor.

Valerie in Tacoma

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