Multidisciplinary approach for medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws: a case report and literature review

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a relatively rare but well-documented complication of bisphosphonate therapy. Bisphosphonates are prescribed to millions of patients for the treatment of osteoporosis, Paget's disease, multiple myeloma, bone metastases, and other bone-related conditions. These drugs inhibit bone resorption by binding to hydroxyapatite, particularly in areas of active resorption, thereby preventing osteoclasts from attaching to the bone. Long-term bisphosphonate therapy is considered a primary risk factor for MRONJ. Bisphosphonate-induced osteonecrosis typically manifests as exposed alveolar bone, which may occur spontaneously or following invasive dental procedures such as extractions, apicectomies, or implant placement. This case report describes a female who developed osteonecrosis in the maxilla and mandible after undergoing bisphosphonate therapy for multiple myeloma and subsequent tooth extractions.