Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ) has captured attention in the past 8 years since the identification of this side effect of bisphosphonates (fosomax, et al). Bisphosphonates are highly effective in control of skeletal health, such as treatment of osteoporosis and cancer metastasis therapy. However, in patients on oral or intravenous bisphosphonates, there is an increased risk of BRONJ (bisphosphonate related osteonecrosis of the jaw) after oral procedures that result in exposure of the bone, especially dental extractions or dental implant placement. The authors found that while the risk with oral bisphosphonates was rare, the risk, while still low, was 30 times higher with the intravenous type. However, after two years of bisphosphonate therapy, the risk of BRONJ escalated fourfold.
Source: Journal of Evidence-Based Dental Practice, June 2012
Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309
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