Sir, we read with interest the details of the ARONJ masterclass and the seven key messages provided by Moore et al.1 Whilst we support these messages it is important to stress the role of expert clinical microbiology input when managing infectious complications of ARONJ cases. In our experience a team approach between surgical colleagues supplying appropriate clinical specimens and laboratory work up from diagnostic microbiology laboratories is an essential facet of high quality clinical care.2,3 Selection of appropriate antimicrobial class, route, dose and duration are vital for good clinical outcome and in minimising the risks of antimicrobial resistance.4 This underlines the importance of the dental profession having access to clinical oral microbiology expertise which is sadly in decline in the UK.
References
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Jackson M, Snall J, McFadzean R, Smith A, Rautemaa-Richardson R . A two-centre retrospective study on the microbiology of bisphosphonate associated osteonecrosis of the jaws. 20th European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 2010. Available at: http://registration.akm.ch/2010eccmid_einsicht.php?XNABSTRACT_ID=101124&XNSPRACHE_ID=2&XNKONGRESS_ID=114&XNMASKEN_ID=900 (accessed 31 July 2014).
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Smith, A., Changez, H., Wright, P. et al. Oral surgery: The role of microbiology. Br Dent J 217, 161 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2014.712
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2014.712