Morphometric Comparison of the Maxillary Alveolar Ridge Profile at Lateral Incisor and Premolar Tooth Regions Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Cross-sectional Comparative Study

Comprehensive pre-surgical evaluation, proper radiographic examination and careful surgical intervention are necessary for long-term success of implants. This study highlights the importance of assessment of morphometric dimensions of alveolar ridge profile at the maxillary lateral incisor and premolar using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) thereby reducing the complications during the clinical procedures like implant placement, mini-implants in orthodontic anchorage, para-endodontic surgeries.

A total of 58 CBCT scans were included in the study and divided into two groups. (group-A, 20-35 years; group-B, 36-50 years). The buccal and palatal thickness of the maxillary alveolar cortical plates were measured at the crest, mid root, mid alveolar housing area, and the apex of the root.

In the sample of 58 CBCTs, the cortical plate thickness at the crest of the premolars has a significant increased thickness when compared to the lateral incisor in both the age groups. The thickness of mid alveolar housing point of premolars has significant increased thickness than the lateral incisors of age group-B.

In this study, the recommendations based on the results were beneficial in providing information regarding the buccal and palatal bone thickness at the maxillary lateral incisor and premolar tooth regions in 21-35 years and 36-50 years age groups thereby preventing complications that occur while undergoing dental procedures.