Evaluation of gingival biotype and bone thickness in maxillary implant patients: A clinical study based on cone-beam computed tomography

Background. The relationship between gingival biotype (GB) and bone thickness is paramount for optimal maxillary implant outcomes. This study aimed to determine the correlation between GB and buccal bone thickness (BBT) and buccal bone height (BBH) in candidates for immediate maxillary implant placement using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods. This cross-sectional study assessed 54 patients from the Periodontology Department at Ilam University of Medical Sciences Dental School. Gingival thickness (GT), buccal bone measurements (BBT and BBH), and clinical parameters, including keratinized gingival width (KGW) and papillary height (PH), were recorded using Michigan probes and CBCT scans. Statistical analyses (Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests) were conducted to evaluate associations between variables, with P0.05). Conclusion. A thick gingival biotype is anatomically associated with greater buccal bone thickness and keratinized gingival width. However, there were no statistically significant differences in buccal or papillary bone height between the different gingival biotypes. Thin gingival biotypes are more prevalent among females.