INTRODUCTION: Computed tomography (CT) permits the visualization of the labial/buccal and lingual alveolar bone. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed at reporting and discussing the implications of alveolar bone morphology, visualized by means of CT, on the diagnosis and orthodontic treatment plan. METHODS: Evidences of the interrelationship between dentofacial features and labial/buccal and lingual alveolar bone morphology, as well as the evidences of the effects of the orthodontic movement on the thickness and level of these periodontal structures were described. RESULTS: Adult patients may present bone dehiscences previously to orthodontic treatment, mainly at the region of the mandibular incisors. Hyperdivergent patients seems to present a thinner thickness of the labial/buccal and lingual bone plates at the level of the root apex of permanent teeth, compared to hypodivergent patients. Buccolingual tooth movement might decentralize teeth from the alveolar bone causing bone dehiscences. CONCLUSION: The alveolar bone morphology constitutes a limiting factor for the orthodontic movement and should be individually considered in the orthodontic treatment planning.
Computed tomography; Alveolar bone; Dehiscence; Orthodontics
