title: Bisphosphonate and Implant Dentistry - Is it Safe?
abstract: Bisphosphonates are a group of drugs that are commonly used to alter bone metabolism in order to prevent bone loss in diseases such as osteoporosis and bone cancers. Unfortunately, the use of bisphosphonates has been associated with bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws. The debate as to whether it is wise to consider implant therapy in patients being treated with bisphosphonate therapy remains a grey area. This review will present the latest evidence and guidelines available on bisphosphonates and their possible effects on implant dentistry. The risk factors, co-morbidities, clinical presentation and findings from various imaging modalities for bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws are highlighted. The management of patients being treated with bisphosphonates, in whom dental implants might be considered or have already been placed, will also be discussed. Finally, the areas requiring future research are considered.
authors.affiliation: University of Manchester, UK.
authors.forename: Ananthi
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Thirunavukarasu
authors.forename: Hugo Grancho
authors.initials: HG
authors.lastname: Pinto
authors.forename: Kevin Guy
authors.initials: KG
authors.lastname: Seymour
mesh_terms: D059266:Bisphosphonate-Associated Osteonecrosis of the Jaw / Q000503:physiopathology; D050071:Bone Density Conservation Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015921:Dental Implants; D004164:Diphosphonates / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D050071:Bone Density Conservation Agents; D015921:Dental Implants; D004164:Diphosphonates