Mandibular Bisphosphonate Osteonecrosis: A Cautionary Tale

The authors examined a 55-year-old female who had received eight intravenous infusions of a potent bisphosphonate (BP) for metastatic bone disease. A mandibular extraction was subsequently performed. At presentation, infection with suppuration and sequestrum formation were observed in the area of extraction. Both the oncologist and dental practitioner must be made aware that when BPs are going to be administered, dental care should be performed in a timely fashion. Prophylactic measures must be taken by the dentist if dental surgery is required for a patient who has received BP.