The Influence of Age,Gender and Dental Status on the Mandibular Radiomorphometric and Morphological Indices

Abstract

Aim: Thickness of mandibular inferior cortex is an interesting measurement for diagnosis patients with osteoporosis. Therefore it can be used for screening people with low bone density as a quick and easy way. The aim of this study was to measure some indices in digital panoramic radiography for evaluation mandible of patients referred to a private clinic and examine the relationship between them and parameters such as age, gender and dental status. Materials and Method: Four indices (MI, PMI, MCI and M/M) were measured on 270 digital panoramic radiographs (from 134 women and 136 men) with Foxit Reader Bidirectional (v.3). Data about patient's age, gender and dental status were gathered and by using statistical analysis (T-test, Anova, One-Way, and Chi-square) statistical relationship between indices and these 3 parameters were evaluated. Results: MI and M/M reduced significantly with age. PMI, M/M and MCI had a significant relationship with gender (P<0.05). M/M and MCI showed significant reduction with increased number of missing teeth (P<0.05). Quantitative indices (MI, PMI and M/M) had a significant relationship with MCI (P<0.05). Conclusion: In general, a series of more practical indices for evaluating bone density such as cortical thickness and morphology can be influenced by age, gender and dental status. Therefore, all indicators are not reliable for screening reduced bone density.