Comparison of Ultrasonography and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Accuracy in Measuring the Soft Tissue Thickness of Maxillary and Mandibular Gingiva in a Sheep Model

Abstract

Abstract Background To date, few studies have compared the accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and ultrasonography in measuring the soft tissue thickness of the maxillary and mandibular gingiva. Aims To compare the accuracy of ultrasonography and CBCT in measuring the soft tissue thickness of the maxillary and mandibular gingiva in a sheep model. Materials and Methods In this study, 38 different landmarks (26 points from the upper jaw and 12 points from the lower jaw) were evaluated. The gingival soft tissue thickness was measured using a digital caliper, ultrasonography, and standard and high-resolution CBCTs. The measurements were finally compared with each other. Results Regarding the thicknesses < 2 mm, no significant difference was seen between the measurements of the digital caliper and ultrasonography (mean difference < 0.1 mm, p = 0.140). Conversely, data analysis indicated significant differences between CBCTs measurements and digital caliper and ultrasonography measurements. Regarding thicknesses > 2 mm, digital caliper measurement was not significantly different from ultrasonography and high-resolution CBCT measurements (mean differences < 0.1 mm) but differed from the standard CBCT measurement. Also, a significant difference was observed between ultrasonography and standard CBCT measurements but not between ultrasonography and high-resolution CBCT (mean differences < 0.1 mm). Finally, mean differences between standard and high-resolution CBCT measurements were statistically significant. Conclusion According to the results, ultrasonography can be a reliable option for measuring gingival soft tissues regardless of their thickness, while CBCT may be more suitable for thicker gingival tissues. Clinicians should carefully consider the measurement accuracy of different imaging methods when planning dental procedures.