Tamoxifen and Dental Problems

FormerMember
FormerMember
  • 1 reply
  • 279 subscribers
  • 1807 views

Hi to this Forum,

I’m a newbie to this forum  Next month, November, it will be one year since my lumpectomy.

I had the lumpectomy, then 5 weeks of radiation therapy, then Tamoxifen.  No chemo necessary.  My score was very low which was great, and the lump was very small.

My breast surgeon and oncologist both said “I was a lucky woman”.  There were no lymph nodes involved.  

 Being a Christian, I believe that God had a hand in all of this.  I am thankful!

I’ve had no real issues with taking the Tamoxifen.  However, 6 months ago I had a root canal plus an appicoectomy where the endodontist has to simply speaking close up the canal.

 I was fine until 2 weeks ago, and long story short the endodontist can find no reason for the slight pain I’m having but put me on antibiotics.  

in the meantime I saw my dentist who I trust sincerely.  I brought up the Tamoxifen, and he is going to research it.  In the meantime I spoke about the side effects in particular bone density problems.

I do have osteopenia and my oncologist said Tamoxifen would be best.  My concern is down the road bone problems with my jaw or just pain all around my mouth.  No way am I having dentures.  I have 2 permanent bridges, and they’re fine.  I have a pretty nice smile and don’t want to ruin it.

If anyone has experienced dental issues on Tamoxifen, I would appreciate hearing from you.  Also I have had sensitive teeth and now it seems worse.

By accident, I came across this forum.  It’s so nice to be here.  

Mary Z

  • Hi 

    Tamoxifen shouldn’t cause issues with the bones for post menopausal women, in fact it can help with bone density. What can cause problems are the drugs such as Letrozole and Anastrozole , AI’s , as these work in a different way, and there is a very rare jaw condition which can be caused by them - but not with Tamoxofen which is why Tamoxifen is given to post menopausal women who have a history or potential to develop oesteo problems.

    Jo x