Denosumab (Prolia) and your teeth
Denosumab is an injected antibody that reduces bone breakdown, used for osteoporosis (Prolia) and for bone metastases or bone protection during cancer treatment (Xgeva).
Denosumab carries an MRONJ risk similar to bisphosphonates. The mechanism is different (antibody vs bisphosphonate), and importantly, denosumab's effect reverses within months of stopping, unlike bisphosphonates that bind to bone for years. This matters for timing of invasive dental work. The cancer-dose form (Xgeva) carries substantially higher MRONJ risk than the osteoporosis-dose Prolia.
We review every patient’s medications at every visit and adjust treatment planning when it matters. If you are starting a new medication or have a procedure coming up, mention it and we’ll walk through what to expect.