Knowledge of dentistry students on bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw

Abstract

Objective: Bisphosphonates are anti-resorptive drugs used in the control and treatment of calcium and bone metabolism disorders. Despite their high clinical efficacy, these drugs have been associated with bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw. The goal of this study is to evaluate the knowledge of final year undergraduate dentistry students on bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw. Material and Methods: A sample of 100 students from private institutions in the state of São Paulo was invited to complete a questionnaire relating to bisphosphonates and the risk factors associated with the development of osteonecrosis of the jaws. Results: 66% of the students did not recognize any bisphosphonate (p=0.0019) and 79% did not recognize their trademark names (p<0.0001). 60% of the students recognized osteonecrosis of the jaws as a side effect of bisphosphonates (p<0.0001) and 56% identified at least one risk factor associated with the drug that may contribute to the side effect (p<0.0001). 66% of the students stated that their course did not provide any lectures on the topic (p<0.0001). Conclusion: The knowledge of dentistry students about bisphosphonates and bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw is variable. This may be related to an inadequate discussion of this topic during their undergraduate studies.