Assessment of radiographic methods used in the vertical location of sites selected for mini-implant insertion

Liz MATZENBACHER, Paulo Sérgio Flores CAMPOS, Nilson PENA, Telma Martins de ARAÚJO

Objective: Evaluate the effectiveness of image diagnostic systems used in the vertical location of sites selected for mini-implant insertion. Methodology: The subjects comprised four patients in whose posterior regions 32 interradicular sites were located for mini-implants insertion. These sites were represented by orifices filled with gutta-percha on acetate dental trays (PCg - contact point of dental crowns on the acetate dental trays; PIg – mini-implant insertion point on the acetate dental tray). Periapical and interproximal radiographs were taken and cone beam computed tomography images of the dental trays placed in the mouth were acquired. The following points were considered: PC – radiodense image of point PCg; PI – radiodense image of point Pig; PCx – contact points between the dental crowns, which were determined on the radiograph. The following vertical measurements were used: Gold standard – from PCg to PIg; measurement 1 – from PC to PI; and measurement 2 – from PCx to PI. The measurements were compared by means of a descriptive analysis and Student’s t-test. Results: As regards measurement 1, a statistically significant difference was noted for the gold standard in 4.1%, 25% and 100% of the measurements assessed with cone beam computed tomography images, interproximal and periapical radiographs, respectively. Regarding measurement 2, a statistically significant difference was noted for the gold standard in 4.1%, 56.2% and 100% of the measurements assessed with computed tomography images, interproximal and periapical radiographs, respectively. Conclusions: Cone beam computed tomography yielded the most accurate vertical position assessment of the sites selected for mini-implant insertion; interproximal radiographs can be used, although certain limitations apply; pericapical radiographs yielded less than satisfactory results and are therefore contraindicated for this particular purpose.

Keywords: Image diagnosis. Dental radiograph. X-Ray. Computed Tomography. Orthodontic anchorage procedures.

Friday, April 19, 2024 12:16