@jimhd Prednisone can have very bad side effects on bones and teeth.. particularly the jaw bone.. How does your primary care doctor see this usage in what is to be now long term usage. You might even check with your dentist.. The following quotes are from Mayo online when google Prednisone side effects......"even low doses interfere with healthy bone growth. Prednisone is a corticosteroid, a type of medication that's very effective in managing inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and many other conditions. Unfortunately, corticosteroids also can dramatically weaken bones and lead to osteoporosis." and "prednisone, and antiepileptic drugs, can lead to the loss of bone that supports your teeth. Bisphosphonates, drugs used to treat osteoporosis, can sometimes cause a rare condition called osteonecrosis of the jawbone, which results in destruction of the jawbone.." Be very watchful.. Check with a second opinion..