Evaluation of Maxillary and Mandibular Transverse Dimensions on Digital Models and CBCT in Untreated Subjects With Normal Occlusion.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the transverse dimension in adults with normal occlusion using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and digital models, and to establish norms for maxillo-mandibular differentials. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-four untreated adults with normal occlusion were selected. Inter-buccal and inter-lingual bone widths were measured on both the CBCT and digital models at the first molar. Measurements were taken 4 mm apical from the cementoenamel junction on CBCT and 4 mm apical to the free gingival margin on digital models. Maxillo-mandibular width differentials were calculated. The correlation between CBCT and digital model measurements was tested. RESULTS: CBCT and digital models demonstrated strong correlations for all transverse measurements (r = 0.87-0.91). CBCT showed an average inter-lingual differential of 0.86 ± 3.80 mm and an inter-buccal differential of 1.09 ± 3.46 mm. Digital models showed -2.48 ± 2.79 mm and 0.89 ± 3.38 mm, respectively. Differential measurements between modalities were also strongly correlated for inter-lingual (r = 0.82) and inter-buccal (r = 0.84) differentials. CONCLUSIONS: CBCT- and digital model-derived transverse measurements in patients with normal occlusion were comparable and highly correlated; thus, they are suitable for diagnostic purposes.