Hi Gail:  This is a very touchy topic for many with good reason, however it really is rare when you look at the statistics on it.

The Journal of American Dental Assoc published an article recently on this and gave the following statistics on Osteonecrosis of the Jaw.

Patients who were using intravenous administration of bisphosphonates for cancer treatment, for extended periods of time, (more than 5 years) amounted to fewer than 20%, and patients taking oral bisphosphonates accounted for less than 10%.  Several studies didn't have any reports of osteonecrosis, so you need to look at all the data around the world and on the various types of bisphosphonates (12 different meds).

The vast majority of cases occured after a tooth extraction or injury to the gum.  periodontal disease, gum infection, truama to the bone, radiation to the head and neck, and smoking are some of the conditions that are usually present if someone contracts this disorder.

Here are a couple of links on this topic from Dr. Gonter and Our Expert Patient PJ Hamel, with more info on this.

If you compare the odds of fracture/osteoporosis to contraction of Osteonecrosis of the Jaw, fractures are a much greater risk.

Good luck, and if you decide to take Reclast, have a dental exam and cleaning first just to make sure you don't have any teeth that need to be extracted.