Knowledge and Awareness of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Among Dental Practitioners in Mumbai: A Questionnaire-Based Survey.

introductionOsteonecrosis of the jaw resulting from the adverse effects of medical treatments is known as medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ). The knowledge of dental professionals about this condition is crucial in addressing it on a regional and global scale. This study aims to assess the knowledge and awareness of MRONJ among dental practitioners in Mumbai. MATERIALS AND

methodsThis descriptive cross-sectional study utilized a web-based questionnaire comprising 21 questions distributed to dental professionals and postgraduate students at dental colleges, hospitals, and private practices in Mumbai.

resultsA total of 403 dentists participated in the survey, with 85% familiar with the condition. A significantly (p < 0.05) higher proportion of clinicians with over 20 years of experience and those specializing in oral and maxillofacial surgery were aware of the indications for bisphosphonate drugs. About 53% of oral surgeons and 57.7% of participants with more than 20 years of experience were aware that antiangiogenic drugs are used in breast cancer treatment. However, awareness of their use in lung cancer was only about 21%.

conclusionsAlthough practitioners were familiar with the term MRONJ, their knowledge of the drugs affecting the disease, as well as its clinical and radiographic presentations, was inadequate. Awareness of treatment strategies and recent advances was particularly lacking among general dentists and other specialists apart from oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS). Practitioners also identified a lack of an interdisciplinary approach. There is a clear need for enhanced education and awareness on this subject, which can be achieved by conducting interdisciplinary surveys, conferences, and seminars.