The association between the severity of periodontitis and osteonecrosis of the jaw in patients with different cancer locations: a nationwide population-based study

Objectives To determine the relation between the severity of periodontitis and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) occurrence among different cancer locations and estimate the effect of dental care on ONJ prevention in cancer patients. Materials and methods This population-based cross-sectional study was conducted through the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database, Taiwan. Patients with malignancies were collected and subdivided into groups according to their different cancer locations, the severity of periodontitis, and dental care. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the associations between ONJ and ONJ-related factors. Results A total of 8,234 ONJ patients and 32,912 control patients were investigated. Lip, oral cavity, and pharynx malignancies had the highest ONJ risk among all cancer locations (OR from 3.07 to 9.56, P < 0.01). There is a linear relationship between different severities of periodontitis and ONJ. Patients with radiotherapy and severe periodontitis had the highest ONJ risk (adjusted OR, 9.56; 95% CI, 5.34–17.1). Patients with good dental care had a lower ONJ risk. Conclusions The periodontal condition and cancer location showed a significant impact on the risk of developing ONJ after adjusting for bisphosphonate use. Good dental care could decrease the risk of ONJ in cancer patients. The severity of periodontitis might be a target to predict the potency of ONJ. Clinical relevance Dentists must be vigilant about the increased risk of ONJ in cancer patients with periodontitis, especially in the head and neck cancer population. Good dental care is advised for cancer patients with severe periodontitis.