Bone metabolism induced by denture insertion in positron emission tomography

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Medical Imaging
• Bone Physiology

Background:

• 18F-fluoride positron emission tomography (PET) detects functional bone changes before structural alterations seen in X-rays.
• Removable partial dentures (RPDs) induce mechanobiological stress on the mandible.
• Understanding bone response to RPDs is crucial for long-term oral health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the bone metabolic reaction to RPD insertion in patients with and without prior denture experience.
• To utilize 18F-fluoride PET imaging to assess mechanobiological changes in the mandible.
• To compare bone response between new and experienced RPD users.

Main Methods:

• 18F-fluoride PET/CT scans were performed on patients before and after RPD treatment.
• Regions of interest (ROIs) were defined in the alveolar bone around abutment teeth and residual bone.
• Standardized Uptake Values (SUVs) were measured to quantify 18F-fluoride accumulation, indicating bone metabolism.

Main Results:

• First-time denture users (Group 1) exhibited increased SUVs in both alveolar and residual bone post-RPD insertion.
• Patients with previous denture experience (Group 2) showed less significant changes in SUV.
• Longitudinal 18F-fluoride PET scans effectively demonstrated altered bone metabolism due to occlusal loading from RPDs.

Conclusions:

• RPD insertion stimulates bone metabolism in first-time users, highlighting a significant mechanobiological response.
• Experienced denture users display a more adapted bone structure with less pronounced metabolic changes.
• 18F-fluoride PET imaging is an effective tool for evaluating bone metabolic activity and mechanobiological reactions to dental prosthetics.