Kate,

I'm sorry to hear that, but hopefully it can be treated at this early stage, and resolve, before progressing further.

I was dealing with ORN for several years, conservatively and surgically, but recently had invasive jaw surgery and reconstruction (segmental mandibulectomy with a fibular free flap) after progressing to stage lll, which surgery is the only way it can be resolved at that point. Mine was a result of teeth extractions (injury) after radiation, as are most ORN cases, and as most are in the the mandible too. It sounds like your husband's dentures were possibly the injury after radiation? There are some cases that it can occur spontaneously or prior use of biphosinates also.

ORN has three stages; I, II, III, with those having prior radiation, and exposed bone for more than three months, so maybe thats why some say stage 0 being it's only several weeks, and each stage has its own requisites. One can present or progress to any stage initially or in step wise process anytime.

It's usually treated in a step wise by stage with early or stage l treated conservatively, possibly with a combination of HBOT, irrigation, and medications such as Antibiotics (Augmentin), Chlorhexidine rinse, salted water, Pentoxfylline & Tocopherol. If there are good results like reduction of exposed bone, stabilizes, additional treatment may be continued, if not, or it progresses, it goes to stage ll or even lll if there is a fracture, fistula develops.

As mentioned, HBOT is controversial with some, but all who I saw recommended it, 20/10 for extractions with the Marx Protocol, and think most will to err on the side of caution, and recommend its use. As suggested, see a CCC that is experienced in ORN. I'm not sure how fast this may progress, infection develops with increased pain, as it may depend on the person health, how it's treated, oral care as the mouth is a hostile environment, aggravating conditions like smoking, alcohol, diet, even the dentures, bone health, and other factors.

I had a number of panoramic x-rays, CT scans to monitor my progression, and followed closely by several Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons, ENT, Radiation Oncologist, sometimes on a weekly basis for examination and debridement, and medications for infection and pain from abscess, osteomyelitis.

Good luck