Evaluation of Cortical Bone Thickness in Upper Central Incisors with Different Types of Buccopalatal Inclination: A CBCT Study

Aim: The thickness of the alveolar bone restricts dental movements in orthodontics. This study evaluated cortical bone thickness surrounding the upper central incisors with different buccopalatal inclinations. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed 318 maxillary tomographic volumes, assessing both maxillary central incisors of each volume, resulting in the measurement of 636 central incisors. The maxillary tomographic images were obtained using a Veraviewpocs Morita system with a field of view of 100 × 40 mm. The images were reconstructed using i-Dixel software. Two calibrated investigators performed all the measurements, focusing on bone thickness in four sectors: Cervical buccal, palatal, apical buccal, and apical palatal. Likewise, the inclination of the upper central incisors was categorized as labially inclined, adequately inclined, or palatally inclined in relation to the palatal plane. Statistical analysis included analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) and multiple linear regression tests (p < 0.05). Results: A comparison of bone thicknesses around the upper central incisor, specifically cervical buccal, palatal, apical buccal, and apical palatal revealed similar values across all three groups categorized according to buccopalatal inclination. However, multiple linear regression analysis indicated that the change from either labially or palatally inclined to an adequately inclined position affects cervical buccal bone thickness, resulting in a decrease of 0.09 mm (p = 0.029). Conclusion: The thickness of the cortical bone in the four areas evaluated remained unchanged regardless of the buccopalatal inclinations of the upper central incisors. Although some changes in cervical buccal bone thickness were statistically significant, these changes are not clinically relevant. Clinical significance: Few studies have indicated that the inclination of the upper teeth can affect the thickness of the bone. If this parameter remains constant, orthodontists should consider these changes in their treatment plans.