OSTEONECROSIS OF THE JAWS ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF BISPHOSPHONATES

Objective: To review the clinical aspects of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ), a literature review was performed to elucidate the clinical characteristics and forms of treatment of osteonecrosis associated with the use of bisphosphonates and the role of the dentist in the prevention and control of this condition. Literature review: This form of osteonecrosis may be of spontaneous or induced origin, and may be asymptomatic. Signs and symptoms include pain, tooth mobility, mucosal edema, erythema, ulceration or, if located in the maxilla, chronic sinusitis. Discussion: Knowledge of this pathology by the dental surgeon is of great importance, since invasive dental procedures to the bone are among the etiologic factors of BRONJ. In prevention, the surgeon-dentist’s role in the medical and oncological team should be advocated before and during the course of therapy with bisphosphonates, in order to avoid this complication. Conclusion: The surgeon-dentist is therefore of great importance to patients with this disease, either in the provision of clarification to patients, in appropriate dental therapy, or in referral to other health areas. In this way, the dentist is able to promote a better prognosis and increase the quality of life of his or her patients.