Effects of interdental osteotomies on the periodontal and osseous supporting tissues

The effects of 40 interdental osteotomies on surrounding osseous and periodontal structures were evaluated clinically and radiographically. No statistically significant changes were noted in any of the clinical parameters except gingival height, which decreased slightly in the maxilla and increased in the mandible. These changes were found to be statistically significant, but not clinically significant, and are most likely explained by the direction of movement of the bony segment. Radiographic evaluations revealed no statistically significant changes other than an increase in interdental width in both the maxillary and mandibular sites. These measurements were made at the root level, and, although the crowns were moved closer, the roots may actually have flared apart because the anterior segment was tipped to upright the incisors. The lack of change in the other radiographic parameters indicated that there was no loss of alveolar bone support.