Evaluation by quantitative magnetic resonance imaging of trabecular bone quality in the dentate and edentulous mandible

OBJECTIVE: To quantify the differences in mandibular trabecular bone quality between edentulous and dentate patients using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (QMRI). METHODS: The patients in this study had been referred to our clinic for QMRI examination for various reasons. A total of 40 male patients (18 dentate, 22 edentulous), 45-55 years of age, were examined. Mandibular T2* axial cross-sections were performed following receipt of consent from each patient. T2* relaxation time values (RTVs) were determined in the trabecular area. RESULTS: The mean mandibular T2* RTVs of dentate and edentulous patients were 181 and 182, respectively. There were no significant differences between the two groups (P=0.929) (Student's t-test). CONCLUSIONS: Mandibular trabecular bone quality may not be influenced by edentulousness according to QMRI.