RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: This study compared the bone thickness of the palate between lateral cephalogram and 3D model measurements. METHODS: The subjects consisted of 30 adults (15 men,15 women) with a normal skeletal pattern and occlusion. The CT images were transformed to a 3D model, and were compared with the cephalometric image. Descriptive statistics for each variable were calculated. RESULTS: In the 3D CT model, the mid-palatal area was the thickest part. It became thinner as the palate tapered laterally. In the male group, the thinnest portion was positioned 6 mm away from the mid-palate, while in the female group the thinnest portion was 8mm away from the mid-palate. Correlation analysis between the lateral cephalometric and 3D CT model revealed a significant correlation except in the mid palatal area and the area 2 mm lateral to the mid-palate in men, whereas there was a significant relationship in every area in the women. In both men and women, the highest correlation appeared in the area 8 mm lateral to the mid palate. CONCLUSIONS: Using regression analysis, an actual prediction of the bone thickness between the measured bone thickness of the lateral cephalometric radiograph and 3D model was made. This will provide useful information for mini-implant length selection when inserting into the palate.