What is the story about?
What's Happening?
A new dental assessment pro forma has been introduced to screen adult patients at risk of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). This pro forma is designed for patients taking medications with Drug Safety Update alerts for MRONJ, such as anti-resorptive and some anti-angiogenic drugs. The pro forma aligns with national guidelines and focuses on prevention, risk assessment, and tailored oral health management. It is currently implemented in several healthcare facilities, including University Hospital Bristol and Weston Primary Care Dental Service, and could be adapted for general dental practice.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of this pro forma is significant as it addresses the need for systematic risk assessment and prevention strategies for MRONJ, a condition that can severely impact a patient's quality of life. By providing a structured approach to dental assessments, the pro forma aims to reduce the incidence of MRONJ and improve patient outcomes. This development could lead to widespread adoption in dental practices, enhancing the standard of care for patients on high-risk medications and potentially influencing dental health policies and practices.
What's Next?
The pro forma's implementation in various healthcare settings suggests a potential for broader adoption across dental practices. Future steps may include evaluating its effectiveness in reducing MRONJ cases and refining the pro forma based on feedback from practitioners. Additionally, there may be opportunities to integrate this tool into electronic health records, facilitating easier access and use by dental professionals.
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