Evaluation of Mandibular Bone Alterations by Panoramic Radiography: A Potential Tool in the Identification of Signs of Osteopenia and Osteoporosis.

This study aimed to evaluate the validity of panoramic radiography as an auxiliary method for identifying mandibular bone features consistent with a diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis. Ninety panoramic radiographs were analyzed to assess the quality of the mandibular cortical layer below the mental foramen on both sides of the mandible. Scores C1 (normal), C2 (osteopenia), and C3 (osteoporosis) were attributed according to the cortical morphology. The sample consisted of 78 (86%) women aged 45 years or older and 12 (14%) men older than 60 years old. In 39 (43%) cases, the C1 score was evidenced as the lower mandibular cortical layer was normal on the image. The C2 score was identified in 47 (52%) cases, in which the cortical layer showed semilunar defects. Four (5%) cases presented a C3 score, with the cortical layer showing a clearly porous, thinner bone cortex. The presence of risk behaviors (e.g., smoking and alcoholism) as well as some comorbidities (e.g., systemic arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus and thyroid disorders) was also observed. Mandibular bone changes were observed in association with a set of risk factors using panoramic radiography.