Significant Pineal Gland Calcification is Noted in Dental Implant Patients

Objectives: The pineal gland is a neuronal structure located between the two cerebral hemispheres and produces melatonin, a hormone which modulates sleep patterns in both circadian and seasonal cycles. The pineal gland typically calcifies over time and recent studies suggest that pineal gland calcification may also contribute to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Patients referred for dental implant therapy usually tend to be individuals in their late 50s to early 60s and may be a vulnerable group for Alzheimer’s disease. Any effort towards early diagnosis and prevention is a helpful step to delay and manage this challenging condition. The objective of this study was to analyze CBCT scans of patients referred for dental implant therapy to evaluate prevalence and extent of pineal gland calcification.
Methods: Retrospective evaluation of 500 CBCT scans of patients referred for dental implant therapy was done, based on the field of view, 200 CBCT scans that showed the area where the pineal gland is located were included. The scans were evaluated to record prevalence and extent of calcification. Descriptive statistics to report prevalence and measurement of the calcification was done.
Results: Prevalence of pineal gland calcification in this group was 58% with females (61.2%) and males (38.8%). The average measurement was 4.4mm antero-posteriorly. Medio-laterally the average was 3.6mm. Average of the total calcified area was 12.38mm².
Conclusions: A significant percentage of the patients in this small group of patients referred for implant therapy showed calcification of the pineal gland to varying extents.