OSTEONECROSIS OF THE JAW AND MAXILLA RELATED TO THE USE OF BIPHOSPHONATE

Abstract

Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw is a condition found in patients who have received intravenous and oral forms of bisphosphonate therapy for various bone- related diseases. Bisphosphonates (BFs) are a class of medications used to treat osteoporosis and malignant bone metastases. BFs show high binding capacity to bone matrix, especially at sites of active bone metabolism. Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw manifests as non-vital exposed bone involving the maxillofacial structures. Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw is believed to be caused by trauma to dentoalveolar structures that have a limited capacity for bone healing due to the effects of bisphosphonate therapy. Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw can adversely affect quality of life as it can produce significant morbidity. It is vitally important that information about bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw is disseminated to other dental and medical specialties.