If you have been prescribed Prolia® (denosumab) for osteoporosis or bone loss, it’s important to understand how this medication may affect your dental care. At Central Coast Smiles, we regularly see patients preparing to start Prolia, and a dental check before treatment begins is strongly recommended.
What is Prolia?
Prolia is an injectable medication used to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures. It is usually given once every six months and works by slowing down the process of bone breakdown. While this is beneficial for overall bone health, it can also affect how the jawbone heals after certain dental procedures.
Why is dental clearance important before starting Prolia?
A rare but serious condition called medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) has been associated with medications like Prolia. This condition involves delayed healing of the jawbone, particularly after invasive dental procedures such as tooth extractions or implant surgery.
The risk is low, but it is highest when invasive dental treatment is needed after Prolia has started. That’s why your doctor or specialist may ask you to obtain dental clearance before your first injection.
A dental clearance appointment allows your dentist to:
- Identify and treat any existing infections
- Address teeth that may need extraction
- Complete any planned surgical dental work
- Ensure your mouth is in the best possible condition before treatment
Timing of dental treatment and Prolia
Understanding what dental treatment can be done and when is key:
Extractions, implants, and oral surgery
These should ideally be completed before starting Prolia. If you are already on Prolia, timing may need careful coordination between your dentist and prescribing doctor.
- Fillings, scale and cleans, crowns, root canal treatment, and routine dental care
These procedures can be done at any time, including while you are receiving Prolia injections. They do not involve bone healing and are considered safe.
- Ongoing dental maintenance
Regular check-ups, good oral hygiene, and early treatment of dental problems are essential to reduce the need for invasive procedures in the future.
What should you do next?
If you’ve been advised to start Prolia and haven’t yet had a dental check, we recommend booking an appointment as soon as possible. Let our team know that you are preparing to begin Prolia so we can tailor your care appropriately.
At Central Coast Smiles, we work closely with your medical providers to ensure your dental treatment is safe, well-timed, and stress-free. Taking this simple step before starting Prolia can help protect both your bone health and your smile.
If you have any questions or would like to book a dental clearance appointment, please contact our friendly team today.