OBJECTIVEThis study aimed to explore the relationship among gingival thickness (GT), underlying alveolar bone thickness (BT), and sagittal root position in the maxillary anterior measured by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). The theoretical foundation was applied to aesthetic dentistry, implant treatment planning, and therapeutic effect assessment.

METHODSA total of 40 young volunteers with healthy periodontal status were involved in this research [16 males and 24 females aged 23-34 years with a mean age of (26.30±2.29) years]. Three records were measured by CBCT. GT was measured at the cemento-enamel junction level. Buccal BT was measured at three locations: 1, 3, and 5 mm below the alveolar crest, along the sagittal angle between the long axis of teeth, and along the long axis of the respective alveolar bone.

RESULTSThe average GT and alveolar BT thicknesses were (1.08±0.34) mm and (0.79±0.29) mm, respectively. The average angle between teeth and alveolar bone was 18.01°±8.96°. BT was positively associated with GT (r=0.293, P=0.001). The BT of canine was positively associated with the angle between teeth and alveolar bone (r=0.457, P=0.003).

CONCLUSIONSBT was relatively thin. An angle was found between the long axis of teeth and that of the alveolar bone. BT was positively associated with GT. An accurate diagnosis of GT, underlying alveolar BT, and sagittal root position in the maxillary anterior is necessary before implant surgery to devise an appropriate implant treatment plan and achieve a predictable esthetic outcome.