Relationship between the facial bone thickness and gingival biotype of the anterior maxilla in Koreans

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The objects of this study were to examine the thickness of labial plate of anterior maxillary teeth and the gingival biotype in Koreans and to evaluate whether there is a correlation between the gingival biotype and the thickness of labial plate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was performed on 335 teeth of 57 subjects at the Pusan National University Dental Hospital. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) was used to measure the thickness of labial plate at 4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm from the cementoenamel junction and the gingival biotype was determined by the visibility of periodontal probe. RESULTS: Thin facial bone less than 1 mm was observed in 87% at 4 mm, 88% at 6 mm and 90% at 8 mm. In 21% of total objects, thin gingival biotype was observed. There is no correlation between the thickness of labial plate and gingival biotype. CONCLUSION: Additional thorough radiographic examination such as CBCT was mandatory for aesthetic dental implant in the anterior dentition besides clinical oral examination.