Implant failure associated with oral bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to report a case of oral bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) resulting in implant failure. METHODS: A patient suspected of having BRONJ was referred to the Department of Periodontology, Kyung Hee University School of Dentistry for the evaluation and treatment of exposed bone around implants. RESULTS: The patient, who had been taking oral bisphosphonates (BPs) for about a year, was successfully treated with systemic antibiotics, chlorhexidine mouth rinse, explantation, and surgical debridement of necrotic bone. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this case suggest that a patient taking BPs orally should be treated cautiously. Appropriate management including cessation of BPs and respective dental treatment may reduce the development of BRONJ.