Can I take Fosamax after having dental implants?

Implants rely on the slow process of bone healing to successfully integrate in the bone. Bisphosphonates act on bone through several mechanisms. They can both decrease osteoclast activity and decrease osteoclast numbers. One stops osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, and the other inhibits osteoclast recruitment and increases their death. This reduces of bone resorption and turnover. Considering these effects on bone, and documented cases of complications after extractions and bone healing, it would be prudent to allow a long healing period after implant placement before introducing bisphosphonate use, and the possible risk of complications if bone related procedures are needed after long term use. In your case the risk would be there if you need any bone related surgery after several years of bisphosphonate use. Dr. Carlos Boudet