Differences in alveolar bone mineral density by tooth type in female osteoporotic patients treated with bisphosphonates

Abstract Aim Rapid and straightforward screening for osteoporosis is essential. Studies have indicated a significant correlation between systemic and alveolar bone mineral density (al‐BMD). Therefore, dental radiographs, which are commonly used in dental treatments, can potentially be used to screen for osteoporosis through al‐BMD. This study evaluated the al‐BMD of teeth designated for extraction from patients receiving bisphosphonates (BPs) using DentalSCOPE®, a novel al‐BMD measurement device, and conducted preliminary analyses for future al‐BMD research. Materials and methods The al‐BMD of 54 female osteoporosis patients treated with BPs and 90 teeth were measured using DentalSCOPE®. Twelve healthy female adults without any dental diseases were included as controls. We analyzed the al‐BMD characteristics of each tooth type and the relationship between al‐BMD and the development of medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) post‐extraction. Furthermore, we compared al‐BMD with that of healthy controls and examined the impact of periodontal disease on al‐BMD. Results Significant variations in the al‐BMD were observed among tooth types, with higher densities in the mandibular molars than in the premolars. Additionally, the premolar and molar densities were significantly higher than those of the maxilla. No MRONJ cases were reported during the 2‐year follow‐up period after tooth extraction. The al‐BMD values were similar between healthy adults and patients with osteoporosis. Although the al‐BMD was lower in teeth affected by periodontitis, this difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion This study revealed differences in al‐BMD among tooth types. Since al‐BMD reflects anatomical and other factors beyond actual bone mineral density, further research is needed to elucidate its association with osteoporosis and MRONJ.