2019 Volume 32 Issue 1 Pages 20-26
Antiresorptive agent-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (ARONJ) has recently become known as a side effect in cancer patients with bone metastasis and patients with osteoporosis who are treated with antiresorptive agents. Invasive dental treatments such as tooth extraction including implant surgery are risk factors for ARONJ. The number of patients treated with antiresorptive agents is increasing year by year in Japan, and so we have opportunities to encounter patients who will be treated with antiresorptive agents under implant treatment and maintenance. Even if the patient does not receive antiresorptive therapy at the time of implant treatment, it is not rare to receive antiresorptive therapy in the future. There are no guidelines on implant treatment of patients receiving antiresorptive therapy. Implant treatment should be planned, including bone strength and risk of ARONJ. Placed implants are not likely to be associated with subsequent occurrence of ARONJ, if oral health is appropriately managed. Peri-implantitis is a risk of peri-implant ARONJ. If peri-implantitis occurs, it is necessary to control infection. Oral implantologists should have knowledge of ARONJ.
