The purpose of this study was to evaluate midpalatal bone density (BD) by using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) according to gender, age, and vertical and horizontal skeletal patterns. CBCT images from 126 subjects (64 females and 62 males) were reoriented and analyzed in order to attain BD values at the midpalatal suture. Four age groups were used for classification (adolescence, 10 ≤ early < 14 years, 14 ≤ middle ≤ 17 years, and 17 < late ≤ 21 years; adult > 21 years). Vertical skeletal pattern categories were differentiated by the Frankfort horizontal line to mandibular plane angle (hypodivergent < 22°, 22° ≤ normovergent ≤ 28°, and 28° < hyperdivergent). Horizontal skeletal pattern differentiation was defined by ANB angle (Class III < 0°, 0° ≤ Class I ≤ 4°, and 4° < Class II). Females showed significantly higher BD than males (p < 0.001). As age increased, BD increased significantly (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between vertical skeletal patterns. Class II showed significantly less BD than Class III (p < 0.05). With this information, clinicians can better understand BD trends of the midpalatal suture and, thus, better understand our patient's anatomy and potential hurdles in successful treatment.
Keywords: bone density; maxillary expansion; midpalatal suture; skeletal pattern.