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

PURPOSE: To introduce a novel digital technique for analyzing the inclination of the tooth emergence profile and the distance between the bone crest (BC) and the cementoenamel junction (CEJ). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study used CBCT scans from 24 patients, analyzing 57 teeth for emergence profile inclination and 206 teeth for the BC-CEJ distance. Digital measures were taken using an implant planning software. RESULTS: The emergence profile angle varies according to the tooth anatomy. Results indicated an increase in emergence profile angle from an average value of 13 to 19 degrees when simulating prosthetic chamfer preparation, highlighting the importance of maintaining the natural tooth anatomy in restorative procedures. The average distances between BC and CEJ were 2.43 ± 1.08 mm on the buccal side, 1.96 ± 0.88 mm on the palatal side, 1.88 ± 1.05 mm on the mesial side, and 1.97 ± 0.92 mm on the distal side. Discrepancies in BC heights, particularly at the vestibular reference point, were found, which could affect periodontal health. CONCLUSIONS: The research provides a foundation for future studies to refine soft tissue management techniques in dental practice. These findings underscore the need for a deeper understanding of supracrestal tissues in prosthetic rehabilitation, aiming to enhance the design of anatomical implant abutments and improve patient outcomes.