Use of Longitudinal Topographic Occlusal Projection to measure the Alveolar Bone Thickness in the Posterior Implant Sites (Pre-Clinical Study)

ABSTRACT Aim of the study: to evaluate the accuracy of longitudinal topographic occlusal view (LTO) in the measurement of alveolar bone thickness, and designing the beam aiming device to improve technical application of radiographic technique. Materials and Methods: the alveolar bone thickness of 20 posterior edentulous sites (10 sites for each jaw) in the maxilla and mandible of three dry skulls measured directly by using digital caliper and radiographically by longitudinal topographic occlusal view with newly designed beam aiming device. Results: statistical analysis of the results with independent paired t-test showed no significant difference between the direct and radiographic bone thickness (p ≥ 0.05). Conclusion: the longitudinal topographic occlusal radiograph presents accurate measurements of alveolar bone thickness in the simple and uncomplicated implant cases of the proposed posterior implant sites to avoid the excessive radiation dose, cost and for time saving for patient and operator. The designed beam aiming device recommended using for standardization, and simplicity of technical application