Exfoliation of primary dentition in children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta medicated with bisphosphonates

To study root resorption of the primary dentition in children with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) medicated with bisphosphonates (BPs) and compare the results with a control group of healthy patients.

A cross-sectional study was conducted analysing 20 panoramic radiographs belonging to children with OI with a mean age of 8.18 (±1.60), who had received BPs in a period equal to or greater than 1 year, comparing them to a control group of 367 panoramic radiographs belonging to healthy children with a mean age of 9.19 (±1.62). Children with tooth agenesis, caries or bilateral restorative treatments in the lower arch were excluded. Root resorption of primary teeth was examined with the Haavikko method and with the PixelStick® software. To indicate the presence of dentinogenesis imperfecta (DI), the radiographic characteristic of DI such as obliteration of the pulp chambers, bulbous crowns, and very narrow root walls, were taken into account. The cumulative dose of BPs was obtained by mathematically calculating the total dosage received (mg)/weight (kg) and multiplying the relative potency of the medication. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparisons, and p < 0.05 indicated statistical significance.

Not differences in root resorption was found between children with DI or without DI. BPs therapy was associated with delay in root resorption of the primary molars and delay in the exfoliation of primary dentition in children with OI. Delayed root resorption should be considered, particularly as it may increase the number of impacted teeth in children already suffering from dental disorders.