Quantitative evaluation of palatal bone thickness to guide miniscrews insertion: a CBCT assessment

Abstract

Introduction: The use of mini-implants has become common in orthodontic practice as it has increased the possibility of skeletal anchorage. The palate constitutes a site of choice for the insertion of miniscrews purposes because it is a site with relatively safety with appropriate bone thickness and less suitability for inflammation. Aim: To quantitatively evaluate the thickness of the palatal bone for miniscrews insertion. Material and Methods: Forty-seven sets of cone beam computed tomographic (CBCT) images were selected. The sample consisted of cone beam computed tomography from 47 patients (20 male, 27 female; mean age 22.4 years old/± 3.01 years). Palatal bone thickness (PBT) was measured in millimeters (mm) with 5 regions of interest (ROIs) which were determined used the coronal reconstructions of the patatal area: 4, 6, 8 and 10 mm posterior to the incisive foramen were evaluated. A total of 940 ROIs were evaluated. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed for PBT between various palatal sections (p<.01). The thickest area (6.31-7.03 mm) was found in the anterior part of the palate. The mean bone thicknesses in the 6, 8 and 10 mm sections were significantly less than those observed at 4 mm from the incisive foramen. Conclusions: The thickness of the palatal bone is progressively thinner from the palatine foramen to the posterior region. Transversally, the bone was thicker in the palatine suture than in paramedian areas, mainly in the coronal reconstructions located more laterally.

Keywords

• Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
• Palate
• Alveolar Process
• Orthodontic Anchorage Procedures