Therapy with bone-modifying agents in cancer patients: Efficacy versus adverse events in dental medicine

Abstract

Bone metastases affect a large number of oncological patients and can determine complications that can impact the quality of life of our patients and further translate into lessen treatment results and overall survival. Treatment with bisphosphonates (BP) has proven its efficacy in preventing the development of the complications related to bone metastases. BP are well tolerated in general but severe adverse events can occur, like osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). Besides ONJ there are other dental and maxillofacial complications determined by BP, complications that by elementary preventive measures can be avoided.

Keywords

• bone-modifying agents
• bisphosphonates
• oral cancer
• bone metastases
• dental medicine
• osteonecrosis of the jaw
• dental implants