Dry socket complications

[veronicab]

Has anyone had any experience with dry socket healing complications due to having taken Fosamax. I took Fosamax orally for several years prior to this extraction.  I had #18 extracted June 5 and it became a dry socket. The socket area finally closed but I still have aching/pain on and off (mostly on) and the area looks slightly red with a strange looking bump growing in the gum area around the socket. I have been to several oral surgeons with each one having different opinions. One Dr wanted to cut the gum open and scrape the bone. He could not promise this would help but said it was a "start". Another said that this situation takes a long time to heal and that I should NOT let anyone cut the gum open.  He felt that having taken Fosamax was a factor in the healing process. I have since done research on the internet and read many horror stories concerning osteonecrosis of the jaw due to the use of Fosamax.  I stopped taking Fosamax in November of 2006 but from what I have read, it can affect the jaw area for years.

Most dentists do not even want to deal with this issue so I cannot even find one who can give me any definite answers.

I would appreciate any input from anyone who has had a similar experience.

[veronicab]

Thank you so much for your help. I  do feel relieved to learn that this situation has a negligible risk and in the last few days I have experienced none or only an occasional slight aching so perhaps the end of this is in sight. However, I am still going to follow up with my OS.

Best wishes to you in the new year.

[veronicab]

Thank you so much for your help. I  do feel relieved to learn that this situation has a negligible risk and in the last few days I have experienced none or only an occasional slight aching so perhaps the end of this is in sight. However, I am still going to follow up with my OS.

Best wishes to you in the new year.

[brcdmd]

You aren't alone...and you are **** the right thing by following up with the OS.  They are probably the most knowledgable in this area...moreso than I am, to be certain.  I do know you have a negligible risk with this case, if that makes you feel better.  Do not lose any sleep over it, as I am sure you'll be just fine, but you are doing the right thing.  Be sure the OS knows your concern, and follow his or her directions and you will see this thing through.  Best wishes in the new year,

[veronicab]

brcdmd,
Thanks for the information. I have been on antibiotics three times during the last six months. After the first of the year, I am going back to the oral surgeon who saw me last (October 2007) and advised me not to let anyone do surgery. He is the one I felt most comfortable with and seemed to take more of an interest in my condition.  When I saw him last, he prescribed an antibiotic with  two refills.   I believe that my age (65 yoa female) in this whole healing process of the dry socket may be a factor.  I know that some dry sockets can take a long time to heal but this seems like an extreme case.

None of the oral surgeons that I saw ever suggested to return for visits to be monitored or keep track of my situation. It is very dissapointing. I feel like I am out there on my own to resolve this.

[brcdmd]

eeesh.  ONJ is a real thing and positively should not be taken lightly.  You are at MINIMAL risk, though.  Oral fosamax usually does not cause any complications.  It is the IV variety with which they have had the most trouble.  Correct, more surgery is the wrong idea...MAYBE run you on some antibiotics, but probably just frequent monitoring...I truly hope everything is OK by now, but be sure someone is keeping good track of you until things have completely resolved.

Blessings,