Osteoporosis, often described as a “silent disease,” affects more than 200 million people worldwide, with many more at significant risk. Women are disproportionately impacted, and yet millions remain undiagnosed and untreated until a fracture occurs. By then, the disease has often progressed quietly and extensively, weakening bones to the point where even minor incidents can lead to serious injury. With demographic changes and a globally aging population, the situation is expected to escalate dramatically. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), by 2040, over 158 million people will be at high risk of osteoporotic fractures. This trend not only results in personal suffering but also places a growing burden on healthcare systems—driving up costs, increasing hospital stays, and contributing to the loss of independence for affected individuals.

Current diagnostic practices for osteoporosis are largely limited to assessments performed by specialists such as gynecologists or orthopedists. These typically focus on specific skeletal regions, while early indicators, visible in the jawbones during routine dental care, are often overlooked. As a result, countless individuals at risk remain undetected until the disease has significantly advanced, reducing the window for preventive care.

This is where Boneguard offers a transformative approach. Boneguard is an AI-based diagnostic support tool designed to detect early signs of osteoporosis during routine dental check-ups. By analyzing panoramic radiographs already taken in dental practices, the system evaluates bone structure and translates the findings into an individual risk score. This enables early identification of patients who might otherwise go unnoticed. Seamlessly integrated into existing dental workflows, Boneguard facilitates preventive screening without adding complexity to clinical routines. It offers a practical, scalable solution to improve early diagnosis rates and reduce the long-term impact of osteoporotic fractures through timely intervention.

Boneguard envisions establishing a comprehensive, population-wide detection platform that leverages dental data and is adaptable across diverse healthcare systems. By steadfastly focusing on delivering measurable patient benefits, enhancing clinical efficiency, and ensuring sustainable integration, Boneguard seeks to seamlessly bridge groundbreaking research with everyday clinical practice. In doing so, Boneguard aspires to become an indispensable tool in the global fight against osteoporosis—facilitating earlier diagnosis, more effective treatment, and ultimately, significantly improving the quality of life for millions worldwide.

The project team combines expertise from dentistry, maxillofacial surgery, artificial intelligence, and a team member with a proven track record in bringing AI-driven dental solutions to market.