Knowledge and clinical decisions of Colombian dentists about the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaws in patients receiving treatment for osteoporosis

Abstract

Introduction: Osteonecrosis of the jaws is a rare, severe adverse reaction associated with the administration of drugs used to treat osteoporosis and cancer, such as bisphosphonates and denosumab. However, many professionals suspend these medications or defer the procedures until they have the referring physician’s authorization. This study evaluates the knowledge and attitudes of a group of Colombian dentists regarding the risk of developing maxillary osteonecrosis with the use of bisphosphonates and denosumab. Methods: A survey was designed from a focus group that was endorsed by experts. A tool of 30 questions was obtained, which was sent to a group of dentists, maxillofacial surgeons, periodontists and oral rehabilitators affiliated with dental societies through the Survey Monkey software. Results: The responses of 187 dentists (42.6% with postgraduate studies) were analyzed. 50.3% of dentists mistakenly considered the use of bisphosphonates an absolute contraindication for major dental procedures and 51.3% believed the same regarding denosumab use. 74.6% of professionals would unnecessarily request approval from the referring physician to schedule procedures in patients receiving bisphosphonates and 43.8% for patients receiving denosumab. Our findings were similar regardless of years of experience or level of education. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the respondents had little knowledge as to the risk of developing maxillary osteonecrosis with the use of medications for the management of osteoporosis.