Knowledge of Tabriz Dentists about Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw in 2015

Background: Bisphosphonates are commonly used in the management of skeletal complications such as metastatic bone disease, hypercalcemia of malignancy and osteoporosis. However, these chemicals may have an adverse side effect called BON (Bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis). The objective of this study was to assess the awareness among dentists in Tabriz, Iran about the bisphosphonate-related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (BRONJ).

Methods: In this descriptive, cross-sectional study a total of 270 dentists were involved to determine their knowledge about the BRONJ. The questionnaire was already validated by ten faculty members and university researchers.

Results: The average knowledge scores of participating dentists about BRONJ was 8.47± 2.52. The lowest score was 2 and the highest score was 12.There was no significant relationship between knowledge scores with age, university of graduation and the duration of clinical work experience. Women and recent graduates were found to have statistically significant more knowledge.

Conclusion: The dentists working at Tabriz city have good knowledge regarding the BRONJ.