Radiographic evaluation of alveolar bone height in the primary dentition: a retrospective follow-up study.

PURPOSE

The aim of this retrospective follow-up study was to verify the distance between the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) and the alveolar bone crest (ABC) in bitewing radiographs.

METHODS

Radiographs were digitized and divided into groups by: age, proximal crown surface status (sound→sound and unsound→unsound), tooth, and timing of radiograph. The CEJ-ABC distances were measured on the distal surface of the first primary molar and/or the mesial surface of the second lower primary molar, using the Image Tool software.

RESULTS

The results revealed interactions between the following variables: timing of radiograph-age, age-tooth, timing of radiograph - proximal crown surface status and age- proximal crown surface status. It has been detected that CEJ-ABC distances have significantly increased with time, particularly in terms of assessment of primary lower first molars. However, this increase is greater in unsound when compared to sound surfaces.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that an increase in the CEJ-ABC distance is directly associated with aging in a normal periodontium in the primary dentition and that the presence of unsound surfaces can be a risk indicator for the development of alveolar bone loss.