[Screening for osteoporosis by dental panoramic radiographs].

Cortical measurements (width and shape) of the mandible detected on panoramic radiographs are associated with bone mineral density of the spine and the femur, risk of osteoporotic fractures and bone turnover. Diagnostic efficacy of cortical measurements for identifying postmenopausal women with osteoporosis is almost similar to that of questionnaire-based screening tool. Dental clinic may be one of valuable strongholds in screening for osteoporosis.