Merita Shkodra Brovina, Mimoza Selmani, Manushaqe Selmani Bukleta
European Journal of General Dentistry - 2026;15(2):279-287
Residual ridge resorption (RRR) is a continuous and complex process. This study aimed to assess the rate of mandibular RRR in women with complete edentulism and its correlation with bone density, and to investigate the effect of complete denture wearing on RRR. A randomized prospective clinical study included 60 women aged 50-80 years with complete edentulism. Groups were divided based on DXA scan T-score values: 30 women with low bone density (osteoporosis/osteopenia) and 30 with normal bone density. Mandibular ratio index (MRI) on panoramic radiography was used to investigate RRR correlation with bone mineral density. Measurements were evaluated before treatment and 1 year after complete denture wearing. Results showed a moderately positive yet insignificant correlation between DXA and MRI (R=0.32, p>0.05). Patients with edentulous period >10 years had slightly higher resorption (B=0.01, p>0.05). Age did not significantly impact MRI (B=-0.0004, p>0.05). One year after wearing dentures, MRI values were significantly higher (Z=2.52, p<0.05). Conclusion: No significant correlation between osteoporosis and RRR. Denture wearing affects RRR. Age and duration of edentulism do not significantly impact RRR.
