Prevalence and Characteristics of Idiopathic Osteosclerosis in Saudi Arabian Population Using Digital Panoramic Radiographs: A Retrospective Study

Introduction: Idiopathic osteosclerosis (IO) refers to dense bone islands seen in the jaw bones. They mimic a variety of bony lesions such as inflammatory, benign Odontogenic tumors, and intermediate fibro-osseous lesions. Accurate diagnosis of these lesions will eliminate the possibility of unnecessary intervention. Aim: To determine the characteristics and radiographic appearance of IO in the adult population of Saudi Arabia. Material and Methods: Digital panoramic radiographs (DPRs) of 2,854 subjects were analyzed for the presence of IO in the jaws. Descriptive characteristics including number, shape, localization, and relationship with dentition were recorded. The frequency was presented in numbers and percentages. The inferential analysis involved a chi-square test. Results: A total of 89 IO were detected in 86 OPGs. Solitary IO was identified in 83 OPGs with the presence of two IO's each in the remaining three radiographs. The overall patient-wise prevalence was 3.11%. No gender predilection was found in the studied population. However, a significant (P = 0.000) definite tendency for occurrence in the mandible (96.6%) was recorded. A significant (P = 0.000) preference of IO was seen with regard to the location with predominance observed for molar (55.06%). For the most part, IO was found to be significantly higher in the apical region (42.69%) of teeth compared to other contemporaries. Significant variations were also observed in shape and size with the majority of lesions observed to be irregular (95.5%) and 1-2cm in size (37.07%). Conclusion: Although, IO occurs infrequently in jaw bones periapical location being the favored, warrants clear differentiation of IO from inflammatory lesions.