A CBCT Study of Labial Alveolar Bone Thickness in the Maxillary Anterior Region in a Teaching Hospital Population in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Labial alveolar bone thickness in the maxillary anterior region is the key factor in the placement of implants. Differences in the thickness of the bone are reported among different ethnic groups. Thus, the present study was aimed at assessing labial alveolar bone thickness in the maxillary anterior region in the population of the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: The six anterior teeth in each of the 186 CBCT sagittal images were analyzed at three points: Point A from the facial plate at the level of the bone crest to the coronal root third, Point B to the mid-root surface, and Point C to the apical third. Crest height (Point D) was measured as the distance from the CEJ to the alveolar bone crest. The analysis was done using SPSS version 20. A p-value of p-value p-value = 0.035). Gender comparison of bone thickness showed no difference at Point A; however, at Points B and C, it showed statistical significance (p-value < 0.05). Conclusions: The alveolar bone thickness being <2 mm in the labial anterior region warns of the importance of the proper assessment of bone during implant placement to have a predictable outcome.

Keywords

• labial bone
• buccal plate
• maxillary anterior teeth
• alveolar bone thickness
• CBCT