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Updated: Jun 9, 2026

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Using Inducible Osteoblastic Lineage-Specific Stat3 Knockout Mice to Study Alveolar Bone Remodeling During Orthodontic Tooth Movement
Published on: July 21, 2023
Anatomic variability in alveolar sites for skeletal anchorage
Fernando Lima Martinelli1, Ronir Raggio Luiz, Marcelo Faria
1Department of Orthodontics, Pontíficia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
Summary
Alveolar bone dimensions vary, with molars offering favorable sites for skeletal anchorage. Anterior sites require careful planning and computed tomography imaging for reliable bone anchorage.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Dental Anatomy
Background:
- Alveolar bone dimensions are critical for skeletal anchorage.
- Understanding variability in alveolar bone is essential for predictable outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the dimensional variability of alveolar bone.
- To determine optimal sites for skeletal anchorage.
Main Methods:
- Computed tomography imaging of 22 adults (13 maxillary, 9 mandibular).
- Measurements included interradicular distances, cortical thicknesses, and buccolingual spaces.
- Statistical analyses included paired and independent t tests, and intraclass correlation coefficients.
Main Results:
- Molar interradicular distances were greater than incisor distances; apical distances exceeded cervical.
- Mandibular lingual cortical bone was thickest; maxillary buccal cortical bone was thinner in molar apical zones.
- Maxillary molars had the widest buccolingual spaces; mandibular incisors had the narrowest.
Conclusions:
- Molars are favorable for skeletal anchorage, but interradicular distances require assessment.
- Anterior anchorage placement demands meticulous planning and computed tomography evaluation.
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