Dehiscence and fenestration of Class I individuals with normality patterns in the anterior region: a CBCT study

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of alveolar bone dehiscence and fenestration of Class I individuals with normality patterns in the anterior region using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 4715 retrospective cases from January 2018 to December 2020 in the Orthodontic Department of Shanghai Stomatological Hospital were screened. Sixty-one cases were Class I individuals with normality patterns in the anterior region. Their incidence of dehiscence and fenestration in the anterior teeth region was studied and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Dehiscence was found in 27.46% of the evaluated anterior teeth and fenestration was found in 26.91% of anterior teeth. Severe dehiscences and fenestrations mainly occurred in mandibular canines and maxillary canines, respectively. Alveolar bone defects were present in 100% of patients, while one patient had alveolar bone defects in 91.67% of the anterior teeth. CONCLUSIONS: Dehiscence was found in 27.46% of the anterior teeth of Class I individuals with normality patterns, while fenestration was found in 26.91% of them. Alveolar bone defects were present in 100% of patients. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Alveolar bone dehiscence and fenestration were normal and common in our sample, indicating that they are more likely to be physiological rather than pathological defects. Orthodontists should be aware of the presence and severity of these defects before treatment in order to avoid both possible complications and overtreatment.