A classification of alveolar bone tissue.

The objective was to present a way of using cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) images to classify alveolar bone tissue. CBCT images were acquired from PreXion3D tomography. Sagittal images of right and left maxillary and mandibular central incisors were obtained. A new grading scale was created based on the presence or absence of bone in each third of the tooth in buccal and lingual surfaces. The tooth was classifi ed into nine alveolar bone conditions: B1L1, B1L2, B1L3, B2L1, B2L2, B2L3, B3L1, B3L2, B3L3. This classifi cation is an additional tool to provide orthodontic and periodontic professionals the precise information needed in order to prevent periodontal problems or to avoid exacerbating them, both situations that might arise during orthodontic therapy. Furthermore, the grading will assist and enhance eff ective communication between professionals in dentistry.