Expert Insight from Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS – Green Valley, Henderson, NV
When it comes to dental care, clear and honest communication with your dentist is essential—especially if you’re taking medications that affect your bones. One such medication is Tymlos (abaloparatide), a drug commonly prescribed to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high risk for fractures. While Tymlos supports bone health, it also plays a role in how your body responds to certain dental procedures.
Understanding how bone-targeting medications like Tymlos may impact your dental treatment can help you and your dentist work together to ensure safe, effective outcomes. To help guide patients through this important topic, we spoke with Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, a cosmetic and family dentist in Henderson, NV, who often treats patients with complex medical histories.
“Medications like Tymlos affect bone metabolism, and that can influence healing and treatment planning—especially in procedures involving the jawbone,” explains Dr. Perrone. “The more we know about a patient’s medications, the better care we can provide.”
What Is Tymlos?
Tymlos (abaloparatide) is a parathyroid hormone analog that helps stimulate new bone formation. It’s primarily used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high risk of fracture. Tymlos works by increasing bone mineral density and reducing the likelihood of spine and other bone fractures.
It's important to note that while Tymlos can potentially impact dental procedures, it also offers significant benefits in treating osteoporosis. Because it actively alters bone turnover, Tymlos is a medication that can potentially impact dental procedures, particularly those involving oral surgery, extractions, implants, or bone grafts.
Why It Matters for Your Dentist
The jawbone is unique because it undergoes constant remodeling due to chewing and dental function stresses. Any medication that affects bone density, healing, or turnover—like Tymlos—may influence how your body responds to:
- Tooth extractions
- Dental implants
- Bone grafting procedures
- Periodontal surgery
“When a patient is on a medication like Tymlos, we need to take extra precautions before performing procedures that involve the bone,” says Dr. Perrone. “It doesn’t always mean we can’t proceed—but it does mean we need a personalized plan.”
In rare cases, patients taking bone-modifying drugs have been reported to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), a condition where the jawbone fails to heal properly. Although this is more commonly associated with intravenous bisphosphonates and cancer treatments, it highlights the importance of careful evaluation.
The Importance of Disclosure
Many patients don’t realize that their osteoporosis medications may impact dental care. Tymlos and other bone medications like Forteo, Prolia, or bisphosphonates (e.g., Fosamax) should always be disclosed during your dental history review—even if you’ve been off the medication for some time. Your proactive disclosure can significantly contribute to your dental health.
Not disclosing medications like Tymlos can lead to unexpected complications during dental procedures. “We ask about all medications for a reason,” Dr. Perrone explains. “Even medications that aren’t directly related to dental health can change how we approach treatment.”
Providing a complete and accurate list of medications, including dosage and duration, helps your dentist:
- Choose the safest treatment approach
- Coordinate with your physician if needed
- Monitor healing closely post-procedure
- Avoid unnecessary complications
What Should You Tell Your Dentist?
Be prepared to share:
- The name and type of medication (e.g., Tymlos/abaloparatide)
- How long you’ve been on the medication
- Whether you’ve taken any breaks or plan to stop
- If you’ve had any previous bone-related complications or surgeries
- Your history of osteoporosis, fractures, or bone loss
“Even if you’re only in for a cleaning, we want to know the full picture,” Dr. Perrone emphasizes. “Preventive care is part of a bigger health conversation.”
Collaborative Care with Your Physician
If your dentist is planning a surgical procedure and you’re taking Tymlos or a similar medication, they may recommend consulting with your prescribing physician. This collaboration between the physician and dentist is crucial in ensuring your safety and the success of the procedure.
“Each patient is different, and decisions should be made based on individual health status, not a one-size-fits-all protocol,” says Dr. Perrone.
What About Routine Dental Care?
Rest assured, Tymlos does not typically pose a concern for routine cleanings, exams, and fillings. The key takeaway is awareness and transparency, which we prioritize to ensure your peace of mind.
“Most patients on Tymlos can safely receive regular dental care,” Dr. Perrone assures. “We just want to be proactive in case more advanced procedures are needed.”
Final Thoughts: Keep the Conversation Open
Whether you’re managing osteoporosis, preparing for a dental implant, or simply trying to stay on top of preventive care, sharing your medication history—including bone medications like Tymlos—ensures that your dental provider can deliver the safest and most effective treatment plan.
“Dentistry is not isolated from the rest of your health,” Dr. Perrone concludes. “We’re part of your care team—and that starts with communication.”
About Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS
Dr. Marielaina Perrone is a cosmetic and general dentist with over 20 years of experience treating patients in Green Valley, Henderson, NV. She provides comprehensive dental care, including smile makeovers, implants, preventative care, and treatment for patients with complex medical needs. Dr. Perrone is known for her personalized, patient-centered approach and dedication to oral-systemic wellness.
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