A Logistic Regression Model for Predicting Osteoporosis Using Alveolar Bone Mineral Density Measured on Intraoral...

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Osteoporosis Research

Background:

• Osteoporosis screening is difficult in dental practice as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is not easily applicable to jaw bones.
• Dental radiography offers a potential avenue for opportunistic osteoporosis screening.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diagnostic performance of a logistic regression model for osteoporosis screening.
• The model combines intraoral bone mineral density (BMD) using DentalSCOPE with the panoramic mandibular cortical index (MCI).

Main Methods:

• A logistic regression model was developed using a training cohort of 83 patients.
• Intraoral radiographs were analyzed using DentalSCOPE for alveolar bone mineral density (al-BMD).
• Panoramic radiographs were used to determine the mandibular cortical index (MCI).
• The model was validated on an external cohort of 21 patients.

Main Results:

• The combined model showed improved diagnostic performance compared to individual methods in both training (AUC 0.88) and external validation cohorts (AUC 1.00).
• In the external validation cohort, al-BMD had an AUC of 0.92 and MCI had an AUC of 0.97.
• The combined model demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy for osteoporosis screening.

Conclusions:

• DentalSCOPE-based al-BMD combined with panoramic MCI provides a reliable and practical method for opportunistic osteoporosis screening in dental care.
• This approach enhances the utility of dental imaging for systemic health assessment.