Mapping of palatal bone thickness using computed tomography for placement of mini screws — A comparative study between genders, adolescents and adults

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study is to determine variations in cortical bone heights and thickness of the hard palate for placing orthodontic mini screws. Additionally it was evaluated whether there are any significant variations between males and females, adolescents and adults, right and left sides of the hard palate in the study population. Materials and methods CBCT images of 50 patients were retrospectively analysed. Patients were divided into sub-groups: 25 males and females, 24 adolescents (age range 10–19 years) and 26 adults (age range 20–27 years). Hard palate heights and thicknesses were analysed from the incisive fossa to the inter-embrasure region between the 1st and 2nd molars were analysed. Results The data revealed that the overall greatest thickness was at the canine-1st premolar embrasure region and the greatest height at the inter-premolar embrasure region. Males showed greater cortical thickness in almost all areas of the palate with significantly greater values in the inter-premolar region. Adolescents showed greater palatal heights than adults in almost all areas with significantly greater values in the inter-molar embrasures. The mid palatal regions showed significantly greater palatal heights in all subgroups. Conclusion Orthodontic Mini screws can be optimally placed in the anterior regions of the hard palate for all the groups studied. Males and adolescents showed greater cortical heights as compared to the female and adult population studied.