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Updated: Jul 6, 2026

Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
Osteoporosis and edentulous jaws
Kirsten W Slagter1, Gerry M Raghoebar, Arjan Vissink
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands.
Osteoporosis may influence jawbone resorption, but current evidence does not link it to increased dental implant loss. Further research is needed for definitive conclusions on osteoporosis and edentulous jaw resorption.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Bone Metabolism
- Dental Implantology
Background:
- Osteoporosis is a systemic condition characterized by low bone mineral density.
- Jawbone resorption and dental implant success are critical concerns in patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of osteoporosis on the resorption of edentulous jaws.
- To determine if osteoporosis increases the risk of dental implant loss.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases.
- Inclusion/exclusion criteria and quality assessment using the Cochrane approach for cohort studies.
- Evaluation of 11 publications on osteoporosis, bone resorption, and implant outcomes.
Main Results:
- Four studies found a significant association between skeletal bone mineral content/density and jawbone resorption.
- Four studies found no association between systemic bone density and dental implant loss.
- Varied parameters across studies limit firm conclusions on osteoporosis and edentulous jaw resorption.
Conclusions:
- The use of endosseous dental implants is not contraindicated in patients with osteoporosis.
- Further research with standardized parameters is needed to clarify the relationship between osteoporosis and edentulous jaw resorption.
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