Palatal bone density in adult subjects: implications for mini-implant placement.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate palatal bone density to allow for better selection of palatal implant anchorage sites.


METHODS
Computed tomographic (CT) images were obtained from 15 males and 15 females (mean age, 27 years; range, 23-35 years). Bone density was measured in Hounsfield units (HU) at 80 coordinates at regular mediolateral and anteroposterior intervals along the midpalatal suture.


RESULTS
Bone densities ranged from 805 to 1247 HU. A significant difference between male and female groups was noted, although no difference was found between left and right sides of individual palates. Palatal bone densities showed a tendency to decrease laterally and posteriorly. The midpalatal area within 3 mm of the midsagittal suture had the densest bone in the entire palate.


CONCLUSIONS
Results suggest that mini-implants for orthodontic anchorage may be effectively placed in most areas with bone density equivalent to the palatal area if they are placed from 3 mm posterior to the incisive foramen and 1 to 5 mm to the paramedian side.
Graduate School of Clinical Dentistry, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea.
Sung Hee
SH
Moon
Sun Hyung
SH
Park
Won Hee
WH
Lim
Youn Sic
YS
Chun
D000328:Adult; D015519:Bone Density / Q000502:physiology*; D003393:Cranial Sutures / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D003757:Dental Implantation; D015921:Dental Implants; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D052280:Orthodontic Anchorage Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation*; D010159:Palate / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D012737:Sex Factors; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods; D055815:Young Adult
D015921:Dental Implants