Assessment of the thickness of the palatal mucosa using cone-beam computed tomography

Introduction
Orthodontic mini-implants are increasingly often used by orthodontists. Thanks to the easy access, low risk of damage to other anatomical structures and the presence of keratinised gingiva, the palate is the most advantageous place for the insertion of mini-screws. When choosing a location for a mini-implant on the palate, the amount of the bone and soft tissues should be considered.

Aim
The aim of the study was to assess the thickness of the soft tissues covering the central part of the palate and to compare their dimensions depending on the sex and age in terms of selecting the appropriate place for the placement of mini-implants.

Material and methods
The study analysed 105 cone-beam computed tomography scans of patients (55 women, 50 men, mean age 28 years), and the mucosal thickness was measured in 12 specific points. The points were located at a distance of 3, 6, 10, 18 mm from the distal margin of the incisive foramen and 0, 3 and 6 mm laterally to the palatal suture. The obtained data were statistically analysed to evaluate the mean thickness of the palatal mucosa, to assess the relationship between the soft tissue thickness and the location, and in relation to sex and age.

Results
It has been found that the further to the back of the incisive foramen and the closer to the palatal midline, the thinner the mucosa and better conditions for the placement of mini-implants. The soft tissue thickness in men is greater than in women in the area of the palate 18 mm behind the distal margin of the incisive foramen.

Conclusions
The study showed that the thickness of the soft tissues covering the central part of the palate varied with the sex, age and location on the palate.