Biophosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaws

In 2003 and 2004, the first reports of patients who developed necrosis of the jawbones while taking biophosphonates appeared in literature; most patients were on this drug for treatment of cancer and some osteoporosis. Since then, more than 500 cases have been identified and the number of these cases continues to grow. This article reviews the action of bisphosphonates, the condition called bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the jaws, strategies to minimize occurrence, and treatment of this condition.