Palatal bone dimensions on cone beam computed tomography. Implications for the palate as autogenous donor site: an observational study

This study analyzed cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) records. Radiographic image analysis included: (1) the width and height of the palatal vault, and diameter and location of the incisive foramen; (2) the potential block graft dimensions and their correlation to arch dimensions; (3) the potential graft size and its variation by sex. CBCT scans of 76 patients were included, 42 from female patients and 34 from male patients (mean age 42.3 years). The mean palatal width was 35.2 ± 3.4 mm, while the mean palatal height was 15.2 ± 2.9 mm. The mean diameter of the incisive foramen was 3.1 ± 1.3.mm. The mean potential osteotomy diameter was 7.8 ± 1.5 mm. The mean osteotomy length varied according to site: central incisor region, 5.9 ± 2.0 mm; lateral incisor region, 5.2 ± 2.1 mm; canine region, 4.7 ± 1.9 mm; premolar region, 4.1 ± 1.7 mm. A positive correlation was observed between the osteotomy diameter and the palatal width: a greater osteotomy length was obtained from the more anterior teeth position. Males presented significantly greater osteotomy diameter and length compared to females. The palate represents a potential site for the harvest of autogenous bone block grafts for the reconstruction of ridge defects.