Three-dimensional alveolar ridge morphology of maxillary lateral incisors in children for autotransplantation.

BACKGROUND

Autotransplantation is indicated for replacing missing anterior teeth in children but requires sufficient three-dimensional alveolar housing. The maxillary lateral incisor region presents anatomical constraints, yet its pediatric alveolar ridge profile remains unclear. This study assessed the three-dimensional alveolar ridge profiles in children aged 10-13 years.

METHODS

Cone-beam computed tomography images from 180 Korean children (189 images, 202 lateral incisors) were retrospectively analyzed. Alveolar ridge, labial, and palatal bone thicknesses were measured at 1, 3, and 5 mm below the cemento-enamel junction. Alveolar process height and labial concavity were evaluated. Age- and sex-related differences were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

Alveolar ridge thickness was greater in males at multiple sites, most consistently at ages 10 and 11; however, no significant age-related differences were observed. Labial bone thickness was uniformly thin at all levels (0.48-1.04 mm), with mean values as low as 0.48 mm at the 1-mm level in 13-year-olds, and showed no significant sex differences. Conversely, palatal bone thickness reached 2.50-2.89 mm at the 5-mm level. Alveolar process height (15-20 mm) showed no age-related changes but was greater in males at ages 10 and 11. Mean labial concavity was 153° without age- or sex-related differences.

CONCLUSIONS

The pediatric maxillary lateral incisor region has a uniformly thin labial plate and a consistently thicker palatal plate; alveolar ridge thickness and alveolar process height were greater in boys aged 10 and 11 years.