A New Digital Technique to Analyze the Inclination of Tooth Emergence Profile and Distance of Bone Crest From Cement- Enamel Junction.

Abstract

Purpose: This observational study introduces a novel digital technique for analyzing theinclination of the tooth emergence profile and the distance between the bone crest and thecementoenamel junction (CEJ), essential in prosthetic dentistry.

Material and methods: Thestudy used cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans from 24 patients, analyzing 57teeth for emergence profile inclination and 206 teeth for the bone crest-CEJ distance. Digitalmeasures were taken using an implant planning software.

Results: The emergence profileangle varies according to the tooth anatomy. Results indicated an increase in emergenceprofile angle from an average value of 13° to 19° when simulating prosthetic chamferpreparation, highlighting the importance of maintaining the natural tooth anatomy inrestorative procedures. The average distances between bone crest and CEJ were 2.43 ± 1.08mm on the buccal side, 1.96 ± 0.88 mm on the palatal side, 1.88 ± 1.05 mm on the mesialside, and 1.97 ± 0.92 mm on the distal side. Discrepancies in bone crest heights, particularlyat the vestibular reference point, were found, which could affect periodontal health.

Conclusion: The research provides a foundation for future studies to refine soft tissuemanagement techniques in dental practice. These findings underscore the needing for adeeper understanding of supracrestal tissues in prosthetic rehabilitation, aiming to enhancethe design of anatomical implant abutments and improve patient outcomes.