Bisphosphonates, osteonecrosis, osteogenesis imperfecta and dental extractions: a case series

Over the past 4 years, numerous cases of osteonecrosis of the jaw in patients treated with bisphosphonates have been reported. Since 1998, children and adolescents with osteogenesis imperfecta have received bisphosphonates to increase their bone density and reduce the incidence of bone fractures. The results have been convincing, but recent reports of osteonecrosis of the jaw have caused great concern when these patients require dental extractions. The dental records of 15 children and adolescents with osteogenesis imperfecta, involving 60 dental extractions, mostly of primary teeth, done between 2001 and 2006, were reviewed. All patients but one had had or were having bisphosphonate treatment at the time of the extractions. No patient developed osteonecrosis. Further studies and data that allow clinicians to design adequate and safe treatment plans for this unique population are needed.