Quantitative evaluation of cortical bone and soft tissue thickness in the mandible

Lee, Soo Kyung; Lim, Won Hee; Chun, Youn Sic

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to provide an anatomical reference for cortical bone and soft tissue thickness, and the attached gingiva width in the mandible.
METHODS
Fifteen males and fifteen females participated in this study. An acrylic template was fabricated and the radiopaque markers were bonded on the estimated alveolar crest to take measurements of the hard and soft tissue thickness at the same locations. CT images were taken in samples wearing an acrylic template. Cortical bone and soft tissue thickness were measured at 2, 4, 6 and 8 mm from the alveolar crest in interradicular spaces from central incisor to first permanent molar. The attached gingival width was calibrated.
RESULTS
Cortical bone thickness was 1.33 +/- 0.38 mm and soft tissue thickness was 1.49 +/- 0.54 mm. Cortical bone thickness was increased in the posterior area, while it was not the case for the soft tissue thickness. In addition, the total thickness was 2.82 +/- 0.70. The attached gingival width was wider in the anterior area compared to that in posterior area.
CONCLUSION
These results suggest that the attached gingiva width should be considered upon placement of mini-implants in the mandibular posterior area for orthodontic anchorage.