Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: A Review

Abstract

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ), which is uncommon and severely disabling, has no recognized cause. In the lack of radiation exposure to the head and neck area, it is defined by non-healing exposed bone in a patient with a history of antiresorptive or anti-angiogenic drugs. In the early 2000s, there was the initial incidence of MRONJ. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) published diagnostic criteria for MRONJ depending on pharmacological record as well as clinical and radiographic characteristics. Patients with osteoclastic bone disease are now thought to benefit most from antiresorptive drugs like bisphosphonate and denosumab. These enhance bone quality by lowering bone turnover and boosting bone density. Because of their powerful ability to reduce osteoclastic activity by slowing the remodelling process and elevating bone density, these medications have also been demonstrated to lower the risk of osteoporotic fractures, enhancing quality of life for the majority of patients. Prior to beginning any form of ONJ-related medicine, oral examination can significantly reduce the likelihood of ONJ as a precautionary step. In addition to managing bone necrosis and resorption, therapeutic objectives can be met via controlling pain and infections. The objective of this analysis is to pinpoint all potential causes and provide a summary of the available MRONJ possible treatments, diagnostic guidelines, and prevention methods