Assessment of Bone Mineral Density and Periodontal Status in Pre and Post-Menopausal Women – A Clinical, Radio Graphical and Ultrasound Study

Abstract

Background: Periodontitis resulting in alveolar bone loss is a prominent feature of periodontal disease. Severe osteoporosis or osteopenia can be suspected as an aggravating factor for periodontal destruction. The purpose of this study is to assess the relationship between BMD and periodontal health in three different study groups.

Materials and Methodology: BMD in terms of T-score and Interproximal alveolar bone loss were assessed in 60 females of age between 42-60 years and categorized into 3 groups as 20 pre menopausal women with healthy periodontium (Group A), 20 pre menopausal  women with generalized chronic periodontitis (Group B) and 20 post menopausal  women with generalized chronic periodontitis (Group C). Number of teeth, gingival index, plaque index, probing depth, clinical attachment level were also recorded.

Results: The BMD and T-score of calcaneal bone were found to be low in Group C when compared to Group A and B which was statistically significant. This indicates that subjects with significantly higher mean age showed increased periodontal destruction with less BMD.

Conclusion: Postmenopausal women with generalized chronic periodontitis exhibited severe periodontal destruction with less BMD. Hence, it is suggested that periodontitis may be a risk indicator for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and vice versa.