OBJECTIVETo determine the agreement between two-dimensional radiograph and three-dimensional CT in the evaluation of the secondary alveolar bone grafting.

METHODSNine complete cleft lip and palate patients (8 UCLP, 1 BCLP) at least 6 months post secondary alveolar bone grafting were selected. The mean age of the patients was 15.5 years with a range of 12 to 26 years. Occlusal radiographs were taken and the interdental septal height was determined using Bergland criteria. There were 2 type I sites, 2 type II sites, 5 type III sites and 1 type IV site. All the patients had undergone CT scan of the cleft within two months after the radiograph was taken. The plane of scan was parallel to the occlusal plane. Cuts of 2 mm were taken from the infraorbital rim to the gingival third of the crown of the teeth. Three-dimensional reconstruction was performed.

RESULTSThe interdental septal height on the occlusal radiograph was conformed by the CT scan. Labial and palatal notch was found on CT scan at two grafting sides.

CONCLUSIONSThe study provided some evidence to support the continued cautious use of anterior occlusal radiograph in the evaluation of bone-graft success before the orthodontic treatment. When the X-ray examination is not in line with the clinical examination, CT scan is indicated.