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The prosthodontic management of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw: a case report

British Dental Journal volume 230, pages 23–26 (2021)Cite this article

Abstract

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) has clear staging and management guidance from the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. There is, however, less guidance on the prosthodontic rehabilitation for this cohort of patients. This paper aims to bring increased understanding on the staging of MRONJ as well as approaches to its prosthodontic management. This case report outlines a removable prosthodontic method that successfully rehabilitated a patient suffering from MRONJ. This case is well documented with the use of clinical photography. The article demonstrates techniques in overcoming the challenges of necrotic bone in the denture-bearing area, and how such methods can improve both tissue health and patient symptoms.

Key points

  • Provides an overview of the epidemiology of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) and the latest staging criteria.

  • Highlights how removable prosthodontics can potentially reduce MRONJ's progression and arrest its symptoms.

  • Presents clear photographic documentation and description of the techniques used.

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References

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the laboratory support from Leigh Davidson at Leeds Dental Institute and the patient who allowed the publication of this case.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Specialty Dentist in Restorative Dentistry, Leeds Dental Institute, Restorative Dentistry, Worsley Building, Clarendon Way, Leeds, LS2 9LU, UK

    Thomas Dennis

  2. Consultant in Restorative Dentistry, Leeds Dental Institute, Restorative Dentistry, Worsley Building, Clarendon Way, Leeds, LS2 9LU, UK

    Matthew Gahan

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Correspondence to Thomas Dennis.

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Dennis, T., Gahan, M. The prosthodontic management of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw: a case report. Br Dent J 230, 23–26 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-020-2500-z

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