Estimation of height and width of bone in anterior hard palate as a donor site for autogenous bone graft using IOPA by long cone paralleling technique

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the amount of bone available for harvesting from the anterior palate region using IOPA (Intra Oral Peri Apical) radiographs. Materials and Methods: A total of 80 patients visiting the outpatient Department of Periodontics were selected. Two groups of male and female consisting 40 patients each were made. They were further subdivided into two groups based on age, 18-30 and 31-60 years of age, each with twenty patients. The patients were subjected to radiographic examination consisting of IOPA radiographs. All IOPA radiographs were taken using long cone paralleling technique. Availability of bone for harvesting, above the apices of teeth was calculated. Results: The bone available in the incisor region was approximately 6.5 to 6.9 mm in height and 7.4 to 8 mm in width, in canine region 6.35 to 6.65 mm in height and 7.6 to 8.1 mm width, and in the premolar region 3.65 to 3.75 mm in height and width. When the bone height and width were compared gender and age wise for CI (central incisors), LI (lateral incisors), canine and premolars, using Student's t- test the results were not statistically significant. Conclusion: For the purpose of harvesting autogenous bone, from the region of incisor and canine approximately 6.35 to 6.9 mm height and 7.4 to 8.1 mm width of bone may be harvested maintaining a safe distance from the apices of the teeth and the nasal floor. The premolar region does appear to yield sufficient bone at safe distances from the maxillary sinus and the apices of the premolars.