Predictive factors of vertical bone depth in the paramedian palate of adolescents

Objective: To determine whether a relationship exists between the vertical bone depth in the paramedian palate (PP) of growing patients and age, gender, and palatal morphology. Clinically detectable traits may decrease the need for further imaging prior to implant placement for orthodontic anchorage. Materials and Methods: Cone beam computed tomagraphic scans (Newtom-9000, Verona, Italy) were acquired in 183 orthodontic patients (10-19 years old). Vertical bone depth was measured at nine unilateral locations in the PP of each subject. Measurements were analyzed with univariate and multivariate statistical tests. Results: Significant variability in the bone thickness was found among locations and among subjects. Male subjects had significantly greater mean bone thickness in six of the nine locations measured, showing a mean of 1.22 mm more vertical bone than females showed at these locations. Age and palatal measurements did not demonstrate a clinically useful relationship with bone depth. Conclusions: Age and palatal morphology are not valid predictors of bone height in the PP. Because of the large variability of bone thickness in this region, computed tomographic imaging remains valuable prior to paramedian implant placement in growing individuals. The paramedian palate presents a promising region for palatal implant placements when the midpalatal suture is to be avoided.