Osteonecrosis of the jaw is characterized as a disfiguring and disabling condition in which the jaw bones begin to deteriorate due to a lack of local blood supply. As a result, those diagnosed with this crippling disease may be at risk of loosing their jaw bone all together. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, tests and diagnosis, and treatments for osteonecrosis of the jaw.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with osteonecrosis of the jaw after taking Fosamax, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Signs & Symptoms of Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Osteonecrosis of the jaw symptoms may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Pain, swelling, or infection of the gums
- Loosening of teeth
- Poor healing of the gums
- Numbness or a heavy feeling in the jaw
- Exposed jaw bone
Causes of Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
The causes of this rare and debilitating diseases include cancer, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, chemotherapy using nitrogenous bisphosphonates and osteoporosis oral bisphosphonates. All of these treatments have the ability to adversely impact the growth of bone cells. However, studies have also confirmed that the long-term use of bisphosphonates like the popular Fosamax, may be linked to the development of osteonecrosis of the jaw.
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Risk Factors
Patients who have developed any form of cancer may be at a greater risk of contracting osteonecrosis of the jaw because radiation treatments may inhibit bone growth in the jaw. However, more recent studies have linked the long term use of bisphosphonates like the popular Fosamax to the disease. In fact, there have been over 2,400 Fosamax patients since 2001 that have reported bone death and jaw bone decay or Osteonecrosis of the Jaw.
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Complications
Complications associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw all inhibit the growth of bone. A sever lack of blood to the jaw causes the mandible to deteriorate. This lack of nutrients eventually leads to the death of the jaw.
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Tests & Diagnosis
Testing for osteonecrosis of the jaw can be as simple as looking at the impaired mandible. However, for doctors to officially diagnose a patient, X-rays may be used to detect further deterioration of the jaw bone. Tests for infections such as microbial cultures also help to diagnose this crippling disease.
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Treatments
Treatments for Osteonecrosis of the Jaw may include antibiotics, oral rinses, and removable mouth appliances. Minor dental work may be necessary to remove injured tissue and reduce sharp edges of the bone. Surgery is typically avoided because it may make the condition worse.
Do I have an Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in osteonecrosis of the jaw lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with osteonecrosis of the jaw after taking a prescription drug, over-the-counter drug or dietary supplement, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.