Cone beam computed tomographic comparison of infrazygomatic crest bone thickness in patients with different facial types

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate cortical bone thickness in the infra zygomatic crest region for subjects with low, normal and high angle facial patterns by bone mapping using cone beam computed tomography. Material and methods The study was conducted using CBCT images of 33 subjects, who were assigned to low-, normal- or high-angle groups. Cortical bone thickness was measured from the cementoenamel junction towards the maxillary sinus floor at heights of 8, 10, 12 and 14 mm along the mesial aspect of upper first molar, middle of the crown through the furcation area of the maxillary first molar, inter radicular bone/interdental region between the maxillary first and second molars, middle of the crown through the furcation area of the maxillary second molar and distal of the maxillary second molar. Results Low angle patients had significantly higher values of bone thickness compared to normal and high-angle patients between the first and second molars at a height of 12 mm and distal to second molars at a height of 14 mm. Conclusion The ideal site for insertion of temporary anchorage devices in the infrazygomatic crest region lies between the maxillary first and second molars at a height of 12 mm in all facial types. To avoid the risk of trauma or mini-implant failure, clinicians should be aware of the probability of thinner cortical bone in high angle patients as compared to normal and low angle patients.