Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Osteonecrosis of the jaw ( ONJ ) also known as dead jaw, or jaw necrosis is a condition in which the bone tissue in the jaw doesn't heal after a minor trauma like a tooth extraction, and causes the bone to be exposed. The exposure of the bone can eventually lead to fractures and infection which may require long-term antibiotic therapy or even surgery to remove the dying or dead bone tissue.
Osteonecrosis is a bone disease that is usually associated with the large joints of the body such as the ankles, knees, hips, and shoulders. ONJ has been associated with the temporary or even permanent loss of blood to the bone tissue, this leads to the death of the tissue and the collapse of the bone. There are an estimated 10,000 to 20,000 new cases of osteonecrosis being diagnosed each year in the United States alone, most of these cases occur as a result of some kind of bone injury such as dislocation or a fracture.
Patients taking Fosamax are at a higher risk of developing severe osteonecrosis and having to suffer the extreme pain associated with the death of the jawbone tissue. The severe pain commonly associated with ONJ is thought to be very similar to the exterme pain often suffered by arthritics. Common symptoms of osteonecrosis of the jaw may include pain in the jaw / maxillofacial region, numbness or altered sensation in the jaw area, loosening of teeth, infections of soft tissue, and the eventual exposure of bone within the oral cavities.
Users of Fosamax that are displaying any of these osteonecrosis of the jaw symptoms should consult with their doctor as soon as possible. Untreated cases of osteonecrosis of the jaw can potentially lead to the death of bone tissue and irreversible joint collapse within the jaw.
Experts have said that prevention and early treatment of individuals using Fosamax or other bisphosphonates is extremely important in preserving the jaw bone. Individuals using Fosomax or other bisphosphonates should avoid tooth extractions and other major dental work while taking the drug.
Osteomyelitis of the Jaw
Osteomyelitis of the jaw occurs when there is an imflamation of the marrow-filled central cavity along with the cellular inbetween the trabeculae bone, as well as the muscles around it.
Most cases of reported osteonecrosis of the jaw related to Fosamax have occurred after dental work, however several cases have reportedly occured without any prior dental work. Anyone currently taking Fosamax may be at risk of developing osteonecrosis. If you or a loved one have been injured by Fosamax side effects you may be entitled to compensation. For more information about your legal rights contact our Fosamax injury attorneys.
