Anterior Maxillary Labial Bone Thickness on Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
• Periodontology

Background:

• Accurate assessment of maxillary anterior teeth anatomy is crucial for dental procedures.
• Labial bone thickness (LBT) and cementoenamel junction to bone crest (CEJ-BC) distance are key parameters for implantology.
• Variations in these measurements based on ethnicity and patient characteristics require investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure labial bone thickness (LBT) at different levels along the long axis of the 6 anterior maxillary teeth.
• To determine the distance between the cementoenamel junction and bone crest (CEJ-BC).
• To identify associations between these measurements and patient characteristics in an Arab population.

Main Methods:

• Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of 100 patients of Arab ethnicity were analyzed.
• Labial bone thickness was measured at 1, 3, and 5 mm from the alveolar crest (LBT-1, LBT-3, LBT-5).
• CEJ-BC distance was measured, and all data were correlated with patient age and sex.

Main Results:

• A significant variation in CEJ-BC distance was observed (0.55-3.90 mm), with higher values in men and older individuals (>50 years).
• The majority of anterior maxillary teeth (74.2%) exhibited LBT <1 mm, particularly central incisors (85%).
• No significant association was found between LBT and patient age or sex, though LBT was greater at the 3mm level.

Conclusions:

• CEJ-BC distance is influenced by sex and age, increasing in males and those over 50.
• Labial bone thickness in the maxillary anterior region is predominantly thin (<1 mm) and not correlated with age or sex.
• The observed variability in LBT and CEJ-BC necessitates careful consideration during the planning of dental implant placement.