3-D mapping of cortical bone thickness in subjects with different face form and arch form: A CBCT analysis

To determine the relationship between face form (FF), arch form (AF), and cortical bone thickness in anterior and posterior region of the mandibular jaws, using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Total 90 subjects were selected. For each subject FF (euryprosopic, mesoprosopic, and leptoprosopic) was determined using Prosopic Index. CBCT scans were done for each subject to determine mandibular AF (as tapered, oval, or square in horizontal sections) and cortical bone thickness (at two vertical levels 4 and 7 mm from the alveolar crest in the anterior and posterior region of mandible in sagittal sections). Numerical data so obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance followed by Tukey HSD (honestly significant difference) test at a statistical significance level of 5%.

Significant difference in thickness of cortical bone was noted between various AF and face. In square AF, mean value of thickness of cortical bone was highest both at 4 and 7 mm vertical level and tapered AF had minimum mean values at 4 mm and oval at 7 mm in anterior region and posterior region on buccal and lingual sides, in all the three-FF.

Significant effects of FF and AF on cortical bone thickness were seen both on buccal and lingual side and the effect of AF was more compared to FF. The availability of the cortical bone in euryprosopic FF and square AF patients was more; therefore, implants with a shorter length may be used in these clinical cases.