Alveolar Bone Dimensions of Mandibular Posterior Teeth using Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Pilot Study

Abstract

ABSTRACTAimThe aim of this study was to analyze bone dimensions of the dentate posterior mandible using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).ObjectivesThe objectives of this study were• To measure thickness of buccal and lingual bone walls in mandibular posterior teeth using CBCT.• To measure alveolar bone width in mandibular posterior teeth using CBCT.Materials and MethodsTen CBCT scans were included in the study (n = 65 teeth). Thicknesses of buccal and lingual walls were measured at measurement point 1 (MP1) and measurement point 2 (MP2). Alveolar width was assessed at most coronal detected alveolar bone (BW1) and at superior border of mandibular canal (BW2). Vertical distance between BW1 and BW2 was measured (H). Data were tabulated and results were statistically analyzed using unpaired t test.ResultsThe study showed that there was an increase in bone wall thickness from 1st premolar to 2nd molar for buccal and lingual alveolar plates. Lingual bone walls were thicker than buccal bone walls at MP1 and MP2 for all teeth. Bone width for premolars was considerably less than bone width of molars.ConclusionCareful preoperative analysis using CBCT is important to assess need of bone augmentation procedures. As the bone thickness and width in the molar region is more adequate, prognosis of implants placed in molar region may be better.Clinical significanceAnalysis of bone dimensions is of utmost importance for successful outcome of bone augmentation procedures in implant treatment.How to cite this articleKunte VR, Bhoosreddy AR, Bhoosreddy SA, Pandharbale AA, Shinde MR, Ahire BS. Alveolar Bone Dimensions of Mandibular Posterior Teeth using Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Pilot Study. J Contemp Dent 2016;6(1):9-14.