Paediatric Dentists Treating Children on Bisphosphonates: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire-Based Study

Purpose: The purposes of this study were to: (1) investigate the knowledge and management strategies of pediatric dentists in Australia and New Zealand who are treating children on bisphosphonates; and (2) determine if there is consistency in management. Methods: A 19-item questionnaire was generated via the online program Qualtrics and distributed to the pediatric dentists. The questionnaire consisted of four categories: (1) demographics; (2) information about bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ); (3) role and confidence; and (4) management strategies of pediatric patients taking bisphosphonates. Results: A total of 65 responses were recorded in the survey; however, 12 responses were excluded, as they were incomplete, hence the response rate was 43 percent. The results showed that 40 percent of participants were directly involved in managing children on bisphosphonates, 47 percent of participants had no role, 37 percent of respondents acknowledged the importance of completing invasive dental treatment before BP therapy, and 13 percent were unsure. The majority of respondents (83 percent) had previously received information on BRONJ, and 37 percent of dentists agreed to complete invasive dental procedures before bisphosphonate therapy. There were multiple responses to the questions concerning antibiotic prophylaxis, the use of chlorhexidine gluconate mouth rinses, and "drug holidays." Conclusions: This study showed an agreement for good communication between dentist and physician. However, there were controversies among other management strategies.