Is panoramic mandibular index a reliable marker in the evaluation of bone mineral density and sexual dimorphism??

Osteoporosis is a silent, progressive, and chronic disease affecting bones of the adults, especially postmenopausal women. Its effect on mandibular bone quality has also been described by some authors in men inferring that gender and age are factors that may influence bone mineral density (BMD) and prognosis. The panoramic radiograph is used widely for the early detection of osteoporosis. The present study was undertaken to evaluate whether the panoramic mandibular index (PMI) is useful for BMD and sexual dimorphism.

A total of 60 patients (30 males and 30 females) in the age group of 25-40 years were selected for the study. Orthopantomograph was taken and PMI determined with the help of Sidexis next-generation software. All the measurements were performed by four observers and data subjected to the statistical analysis.

The mean superior PMI was 0.22-0.27, and the inferior PMI was 0.28-0.34. The mean superior and inferior linear measurements from the mental foramen were higher in males than females and statistically significant. The mean mandibular cortical width was 3.8-4.7 mm but did not show much gender difference.

PMI is a reliable indicator for determining BMD but is not much influenced by gender variation.