Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose
Osteonecrosis of the jaws was initially linked with the use of bisphosphonate medications. It has become clear that these osteonecrotic lesions of the jaw are associated with multiple anti-resorptive and anti-angiogenic medications. These drugs are used in the treatment of cancer and in the prevention of complications from osteoporosis. The osteonecrotic jaw lesions have defined stages based on the clinical presentation. The osteonecrotic lesions are a side effect of treatment with the medications. Surgical dental procedures performed on patients taking these medications can increase the risk. These osteonecrotic lesions occur only in craniofacial bones, and the etiology has started to become better understood. This presentation will review the anti-resorptive and anti-angiogenic medications that have been linked to osteonecrosis of the jaws and review the relative risks with each medication and the method by which the medication is administered. Observations of the cases, causes of the osteonecrosis, and approaches to prevent this side effect will be discussed.
Learning Objectives:
Recognize the clinical features of osteonecrosis of the jaws (ONJ)
Learn about the risk factors to the development of ONJ
Define the mechanism of action of anti-resorptive and anti-angiogenic medications linked to ONJ
Identify the link between microbial biofilms and ONJ
Learn appropriate clinical strategies to prevent ONJ
