Bone density indirectly indicates an individual’s risk of fracture. Bone density is determined by performing an investigative test to measure the degree of mineralization of trabecular bone that is present in a certain volume of bone. The degree of mineralization can be determined using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (densitometry). Dental Implant Surgeons use the quantitative measurement of minerals in bone to indicate the structural strength of a patient’s jawbone.
Historically, the volume of a patient’s exiting bone was the main factor used when creating a dental implant treatment plan. When less bone was available, fewer and/or shorter implants were used. Patients with large bone volumes would receive more and/or longer implants. However, treatment plans today take the final prosthesis options into consideration first. The patient’s desires are noted. Bone density in the areas where implant abutments will be placed must be evaluated.
Today, it is the density of the bone that determines treatment planning, including:
- Surgical approach
- Implant design
- Healing time
- Initial progressive bone loading during prosthetic reconstruction