Osteonecrosis of the jaws associated with the use of bisphosphonates (alendronate, pamidronate, risedronate et zoledronate) are described as an avascular necrosis. We have listed 184 cases of bisphosphonates-associated osteonecrosis of the maxillary in the literature. Many mechanisms are discussed in bisphosphonates-associated osteonecrosis: a disturbing bone turnover, an accumulation of bone's microdamage or an antiangiogenic effect. Other risk factors seem however to be involved: cancer, chemotherapy, glucocorticoids, infection and renal insufficiency.