Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ)

Abstract

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a rare condition that has been mainly related to the treatment with i.v. bisphosphonates in patients affected by cancer bone disease. The ethiopathology is still unknown and thefrequency is between 0.8 and 12 %. It can appear in edentulous patients, but invasive procedures have been demonstrated to increase the risk of developing this complication. Few cases have been described in the endodontic literature. In the next chapter, we will describe ONJ, will analyze the data from literature, and will report expert opinions and guidelines about the best clinical practice in the endodontic field. Finally, since data in this field are limited, we would like to underline that the best treatment plan for cancer patients receiving bisphosphonates and requiring dental procedures is a multidisciplinary, case-by-case approach.