Comparison of the Mandibular Bone Densitometry Measurement Between Normal, Osteopenic and Osteoporotic Postmenopausal Women

OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to compare the mandibular bone density between postmenopausal women with normal skeletal bone mass density (BMD) and those with low skeletal BMD using digital panoramic radiographs. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred fifteen postmenopausal women were divided into normal and osteoporotic/osteopenic groups. Digital panoramic radiographs were prepared using Digora PCT Sorodex equipment and Promax panoramic X-ray unit (Planmeca, Helsinki, Finland, Kvp=68 and mA=9). The mandibular bone density of an area (approximately 4×4 mm), exactly near the distal edge of the right mental foramen was determined in digital panoramic radiographs using Digora for Windows (DfW) Software. RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference in mandibular bone density between the normal and osteoporotic/osteopenic participants (P >0.05). Mandibular bone density was not statistically different in normal and osteoporotic individuals with SBMD or FBMD T-score -2.5 (P >0.05). Density of the region of interest differed significantly between the normal and the osteoporotic group with SBMD and FBMD T-score -2.5 (P <0.05). The same results also gained in women who were osteoporotic only in the femoral region (P <0.05). CONCLUSION Mandibular bone density in subjects with low BMD was related to FBMD. So, digital panoramic radiographs could be beneficial in the diagnosis of postmenopausal women who are at risk of osteoporosis.