Utility of CBCT for the measurement of palatal bone thickness.

INTRODUCTION

The palate is an alternative anchoring site for orthodontic implants. Adequate bone at mini-implant placement site can influence the success or failure of anchorage. Hence, it is imperative to measure the thickness of the palatal bone.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

CBCT scans of 30 subjects in the age range of 12 to 28 years were retrospectively analyzed with the objective of measuring the palatal bone thickness. Thirty sites were identified on each CBCT scan with incisive foramen as a landmark and measurements were obtained anteroposteriorly as well as mediolaterally, using Carestream 3D imaging software. The data collected was analyzed using one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis revealed higher palatal bone thickness at the median and paramedian regions of anterior palate, 4mm and 8mm distal to incisive foramen.

CONCLUSION

CBCT is an ideal modality for measuring palatal bone thickness and can be utilized for locating the ideal site for placement of orthodontic mini-implants.