Knowledge and Attitude Regarding Bisphosphonates and Related Osteonecrosis among Turkish Dentist: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Aims: Bisphosphonates (BPs), the antiresorptive drugs, can cause osteonecrosis of the jaws. Having adequate knowledge about BPs and bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) is very important to prevent complications. In this study, we aimed to determine the level of knowledge of dentists about BPs and BRONJ in Turkey and also aimed to share the results with health authorities to plan new education strategies. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire consisting of 20 questions and two parts was used to determine the knowledge level, attitude, and training needs of the dentists. Answers to all questions were analyzed with descriptive statistics, and using Pearson Chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests. P values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 620 general and specialist dentists working in three different sectors and four different cities agreed to participate in the study. Statistically, more knowledge about BPs and BRONJ was observed in dentists who have less than 10 years of experience than those who have over 10 years, specialist dentists than general dentists, and those who working in university hospitals than in other sectors. In general, the rate of those who know BPs is 16.8%, the rate of those who know BRONJ is 20.2%. Conclusions: Although the use of BPs increases day by day, the awareness of BPs and BRONJ among the dentists is insufficient. However, periodically organizing postgraduate training programs on this subject will increase the awareness and level of knowledge.