[Systemic bone mineral density versus clinical periodontal condition: cross-sectional study in postmenopausal women]

To assess the systemic bone mineral density (BMD) and the periodontal situation in postmenopausal women, to understand the possible role of osteoporosis as a risk factor for periodontal disease.

The sample was comprised of 47 postmenopausal women, divided into 3 groups: 14 patients with normal bones (G1), 17 with osteopenia (G2) and 16 patients with osteoporosis (G3). Data was obtained using bone mineral density (BMD), obtained by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in the lumbar area (L1-L4). Periodontal condition was evaluated by Gingival Index (GI), Plaque Index (PI) and Clinical Attachment Level (CAL). Results were analyzed and submitted to statistical treatment, through the One Way ANOVA: (alpha=0.05) test and the Pearson's Correlation test (alpha=0.01).

GI, PI and CAL variables did not disclose a significant difference in the periodontal situation of postmenopausal women A significant correlation between periodontal parameters GI, PI and CAL (p<0,001) was observed, however no significant correlation was detected between periodontal parameters (GI, PI and CAL) and systemic bone condition of postmenopausal women, evaluated by BMD (p>0.01).

The periodontal situation of postmenopausal women does not depend on the systemic bone mass and there is no significant correlation between BMD and periodontal parameters. However, further longitudinal surveys are required to understand osteoporosis as a risk factor of periodontal disease.