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Implant Overdentures with Biophosphates

Posted by writeradmin

I have two problems going on currently. One is I have been negligent with my oral health and am losing my teeth. Additionally, I am being treated for osteoporosis and taking Boniva. I want to get implant overdentures but I’ve been told that people with osteoporosis cannot get dental implants. I REALLY do not want dentures. Is there a way around this?

Kevin

Dear Kevin,

Illustration of implant overdentures

I’m sorry for all you are going through at the moment. That is a lot to deal with. It is hard when we realize we’ve made some unwise choices and are now faced with even harder decisions. I am proud of you for stepping up and trying to get this under control.

You didn’t mention if your osteoporosis was under control or not, but if it is, then you can get dental implants as long as you take some precautions first. The biophosphates do a great job of increasing bone density. The problem lies in how it does that. The process blocks or interferes with osteoclasts, which are cells that eat bone.

Taking this medication during a dental implant procedure can lead to an increased risk of dental implant failure as well as osteonecrosis or death of the jawbone. You can still get dental implants, but you will need to pause the medication for a period of time to increase your chances of a successful procedure.

Generally, you will want to stop your medication four months before your procedure and stay off of it until your implants have had an opportunity to integrate with your jawbone. This will only be possible if your osteoporosis is under control.

If you are good to go, once you have your dental implants integrated, your dentist will then anchor a pair of dentures to them in order to complete your implant overdentures.

I know you are probably discouraged with the state of how things are going for you right now. The good news is that today’s technological advances in dental care can give you the closest thing to having a healthy natural smile again.

This blog is brought to you by Moline, IL Dentist Dr. Goebel.