Tooth extractions in intravenous bisphosphonate-treated patients: a refined protocol

Area of Science:

• Oral Surgery
• Dental Medicine
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Bisphosphonates, particularly potent intravenous formulations, pose challenges for dental procedures like tooth extractions.
• Previous protocols for tooth extraction in these patients exist but may be time-consuming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To refine an existing surgical protocol for tooth extractions in patients with a history of intravenous bisphosphonate use.
• To significantly shorten the operating time compared to a previously reported protocol.

Main Methods:

• A prospective hospital-based study involving 63 patients undergoing 202 tooth extractions.
• The refined protocol omitted a vestibular split-thickness flap.
• Extraction sites were filled with autologous plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF).
• Infection control involved dental hygiene and antibiotic therapy.

Main Results:

• The refined surgical protocol resulted in a significantly shorter operating time (P = .00) compared to the previous protocol which utilized a vestibular flap.
• Sixty-three patients and 202 tooth extractions were included in the analysis.

Conclusions:

• The modified surgical protocol is a potentially superior option for tooth extractions in patients treated with intravenous bisphosphonates.
• The protocol appears to be faster and simpler than previously successful methods.