Evaluation of Crestal Mucosa Thickness with Alveolar Hard Tissue Measurements in CBCT Images Before Implant Placement

Abstract Background: This study aimed to evaluate crestal mucosa thickness, alveolar cortical bone thickness, crest height, and width on CBCT images and compare these measurements across various patient groups and edentulous locations. Methods: A total of 318 edentulous sites from 100 patients (50 females and 50 males) scheduled for dental implantation were assessed. CBCT images were evaluated using One Volume Viewer Software, and measurements were taken from vertical cross-sectional views aligned with the alveolar ridge. Crestal mucosa thickness (CMT), cortical bone thickness (CBT) at the alveolar crest, alveolar ridge width at 5 mm apical to the crest, buccal and lingual/palatal CBT and alveolar bone height were measured. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software. Results: Mucosa thickness in the alveolar crest did not significantly differ across regions (p>0.05). Patients aged ≥65 years exhibited significantly reduced alveolar crest height and buccal, lingual, and palatal CBT. Alveolar ridge width and lingual/palatal CBT were lower in females than males (p