Relationship between buccal bone and gingival thickness revisited using non-invasive registration methods

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Anatomy
• Periodontology

Background:

• Understanding the relationship between bone and soft tissue is vital for successful dental implantology and orthodontic treatments.
• Buccal bone thickness in the premaxillary region influences soft tissue esthetics and stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between buccal bone thickness and soft tissue thickness in the premaxillary dentition.
• To establish non-invasive methods for assessing these parameters.

Main Methods:

• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to measure buccal bone thickness at five points (1-5 mm from the alveolar crest) on central incisors, lateral incisors, and canines in 21 patients.
• Ultrasonic device measured corresponding buccal gingival thickness.
• Spearman's correlation coefficient analyzed the relationship between bone and soft tissue thickness.

Main Results:

• Mean buccal bone thickness varied by tooth type, with central incisors at 1.07 mm, lateral incisors at 1.16 mm, and canines at 0.98 mm.
• Over 50% of central incisors and canines exhibited buccal bone thickness less than 1 mm.
• A moderately positive correlation (ρ = 0.406, P < 0.001) was found between buccal bone and soft tissue thickness.

Conclusions:

• Thin buccal bone (<1 mm) is prevalent in a significant portion of premaxillary central incisors and canines.
• The findings suggest a predictable relationship between bone and soft tissue dimensions in this region.
• This correlation is important for planning esthetic and functional dental interventions.