Determination of density of bone structures of the maxillo-facial region in clinical practice

Abstract

The purpose of the work is to conduct an analysis of specialized scientific literature to summarize data on the study of the radiological density of bone structures of the maxillo-facial region, which are visualized using the method of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) of the skull. Bone tissue is a dynamic open system with a complex multi-level organization that performs support-mechanical, protective and metabolic functions. As a result of the process of adaptive remodeling, according to the state of the regulatory systems and the local conditions in which it is located, the bone can change its structure and properties. It is characterized by significant individual and topographical variability of morphological structure, physical and mechanical properties, chemical composition and biological potential. A key tool for successful treatment planning is the analysis of skull CBCT data followed by 3D reconstruction of the image in the appropriate radiological density range. The X-ray attenuation scale (Hounsfield scale) is used to quantify the density. Measurement of bone density provides valuable information about its quality, indicating a strong discrepancy of indicators in different areas of the dentognathic apparatus. In modern literature, there are isolated works devoted to the specifics of changes in the density of bone tissue in the period of development, before and during the orthodontic treatment of dentognathic deformations. Analyzing numerous studies on the above-mentioned topic, it can be stated that the physical, mechanical and biological characteristics of the bone tissue of the dentognathic apparatus determine the effectiveness of dental manipulations. Measuring the optical density of bone tissue using CBCT is a diagnostically informative and accessible research method. The obtained data should be used when choosing the design of orthodontic devices, predicting the terms of their use and activation, when evaluating changes in the dynamics of treatment. Prospects for further research will be aimed at determining the optical density of bone tissues of the maxillo-facial region in children with congenital unilateral and bilateral cleft lip and palate. Keywords: cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) of the skull, optical density, Hounsfield scale, congenital cleft lip and palate.