Periodontal Disease - Symptoms

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Prescription Medications. Gingival overgrowth can be a side effect of many different drugs, most commonly phenytoin (Dilantin), cyclosporine (Sandimmune), and a short-acting form of the calcium channel blocker nifedipine (Procardia).

There have been a few reports of osteonecrosis (bone destruction) of the jaw in patients who take oral bisphosphonate drugs such as alendronate (Fosamax). These drugs are used to treat and prevent osteoporosis. However, almost all cases of osteonecrosis of the jaw associated with bisphosphonate drugs have occurred during or after the use of intravenous bisphosphonates, which are usually given to treat bone cancer or other cancers that have spread to the bone. Symptoms of osteonecrosis of the jaw include loose teeth, exposed jawbone, pain or swelling in the jaw, gum infections, and poor healing of the gums.

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As a precaution, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that patients who are prescribed or are to receive bisphosphonate drugs get a thorough dental exam before beginning drug therapy, or as soon as possible after beginning therapy. The ADA also recommends that patients who take oral (pill form) bisphosphonate drugs should discuss with their dentists any potential risks from dental procedures (such as extractions and implants) that involve the jawbone. In any case, be sure to inform your dentist if you are taking any type of bisphosphonate drug. Your dentist or oral surgeon may need to take special precautions when performing dental surgery.

Review Date: 02/16/2011
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).