Award Date

5-15-2026

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Dental Medicine

First Committee Member

Brian Chrzan

Second Committee Member

Sung Kim

Third Committee Member

Charles Hill

Fourth Committee Member

Ying Guo

Number of Pages

66

Abstract

Background: The indications for the use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in orthodontics has grown since it was first introduced and dentists are discovering new ways that 3D images enhance diagnosis and treatment planning. Evaluating bone quality and quantity can be measured as bone density and thickness in CBCT imaging and is helpful for temporary anchorage device (TAD) placement in orthodontic treatment. TADs rely on primary stability and are commonly used in orthodontic treatment to increase anchorage and expand the limit that nonsurgical orthodontics can provide.

Objectives: This study aims to assess the bone thickness and density at different locations in adolescent patients using CBCT imaging. By observing the measurements with CBCT imaging, the goal is to determine which locations have the highest bone density and thickness for TAD placement.

Methods: CBCT images from 59 Hispanic participants (aged 12-17 years old) were selected from the UNLV Orthodontic Clinic. Cortical bone thickness and density were measured at 8 different locations at vertical heights of 3mm, 6mm, and 9mm from the alveolar crest in the maxilla and mandible.

Results: There were no significant bilateral differences in cortical bone thickness, however the right side had significantly higher bone density than the left side. Cortial bone thickness and density were significantly greater in the mandible than the maxilla, except for Anterior 3mm. In the mandible, posterior thickness was significantly greater in all locations compared to the anterior and posterior density was significantly greater in only the 3mm location. In the maxilla, anterior thickness at 3mm was significantly greater than the posterior, and anterior density was significantly greater in all locations compared to the posterior. Cortical bone thickness and density increased significantly as the height from the crest of the alveolar ridge increased. There were no significant differences in cortical bone thickness for sex. For cortical bone density, females had significantly higher measurements compared to males at 75% of the locations. While some locations showed weak to moderate positive correlation between age and bone thickness and density, majority of the locations showed no significant correlation in males and females.

Conclusion: This study revealed that in Hispanic adolescent patients, the posterior mandible generally has increased cortical bone density and thickness. Also, moving more apical and increasing the vertical height from the crest of the alveolar ridge leads to higher values of bone thickness and density. To maximize treatment efficiency and success, clinicians should aim to place TADs in these areas.

Controlled Subject

Bones; Orthodontics; Three-dimensional imaging

Disciplines

Biology | Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering | Dentistry

File Format

PDF

File Size

1154 KB

Degree Grantor

University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Language

English

Rights

IN COPYRIGHT. For more information about this rights statement, please visit http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

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