Quantitative and qualitative bone analysis in the maxillary lateral region.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology

Background:

• The maxillary sinus floor proximity to posterior teeth roots is crucial for dental implant success.
• Accurate assessment of bone height and density is vital for preoperative planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify bone volume between maxillary posterior teeth apices and the sinus floor.
• To compare CBCT and OPG imaging for evaluating this bone volume.
• To assess bone density in the maxillary lateral region using CBCT.

Main Methods:

• Fifty-one partially edentulous patients were included.
• Distances from premolar and molar apices to the sinus floor were measured using CBCT and OPG.
• Bone density was evaluated using 3D CBCT imaging.

Main Results:

• Maxillary first and second molars showed the shortest mean distances to the sinus floor compared to first premolars.
• Bone density increased from the maxillary first premolar to the second molar.
• No statistically significant differences were observed between evaluated sites.

Conclusions:

• The study provides essential data on bone distances and density in the maxillary lateral region.
• Preoperative evaluation using imaging is critical for successful dental implant placement.