A restoratively driven ridge categorization, as determined by incorporating ideal restorative positions on radiographic templates utilizing computed tomography scan analysis.
BACKGROUND
The introduction of implants into the field of dentistry has revolutionized the way we evaluate edentulous ridges. In an attempt to evaluate the deficient edentulous ridge, numerous classification systems have been proposed. Each of these classification systems implements a different approach for evaluating and planning treatment for the ridge deficiency.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of the present investigation was to propose a restoratively driven ridge categorization (RDRC) for horizontal ridge deformities based on an ideal implant position as determined through implant simulation, utilizing computed tomography (CT) scan images.


METHODS
Radiographic templates were developed to capture the ideal restorative tooth position. Measurements were performed using CT scan software in a cross-sectional view and by virtual placement of a parallel-sided implant with a 3.25-mm diameter.


RESULTS
Edentulous ridges were divided into five groupings: Group I, simulated implants with at least 2 mm of facial bone, accounted for 19.4% of ridges; Group II, simulated implant completely surrounded by bone, with less than 2 mm of facial plate thickness, accounted for 10.4% of ridges; Group III, wherein dehiscences are detected but no fenestrations are present, accounted for 33.3% of ridges; Group IV, wherein fenestrations are detected but no dehiscence is present, accounted for 6.3% of ridges; and Group V, wherein both dehiscences and fenestrations are present, accounted for 30.6% of ridges.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of RDRC indicates that a high number of cases in the maxillary anterior area would require augmentation procedures in order to achieve ideal implant placement and restoration.
Elian
Nicolas
N
Department of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY, USA.
Ehrlich
Brian
B
Jalbout
Ziad
Z
Cho
Sang-Choon
SC
Froum
Stuart
S
Tarnow
Dennis
D
D016301:Alveolar Bone Loss / Q000145:classification* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D000539:Alveolar Process / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D019412:Anatomy, Cross-Sectional; D003198:Computer Simulation; D003724:Dental Arch / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D015921:Dental Implants; D006801:Humans; D007575:Jaw, Edentulous / Q000145:classification* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008437:Maxilla / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008954:Models, Biological; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D012984:Software; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014584:User-Computer Interface
D015921:Dental Implants