Rationale for selecting bracket parameters prior to orthodontic treatment in Russian Ministry of Defense servicemen with occlusal anomalies

Background: This study evaluated the thickness of the maxillary alveolar process in the anterior teeth using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to determine safe torque and bracket parameters prior to orthodontic treatment in servicemen with distal occlusion (distoclusion).

Materials and methods: In a medical examination in 2024, CBCT data from 58 male servicemen aged 22–30 years old diagnosed with occlusal anomalies (K07.1, K07.2, and K07.3 per the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) were analyzed. Bone thickness at the incisors and canines of the maxillary alveolar process was measured on the buccal and palatal sides using CBCT images in a standard format for processing, storage, transmission, printing, and visualization of medical images (1500×1700 mm). The maximum palatal bone thickness was observed in the anterior teeth region in 68% of the participants. The mean values were 6.96 ± 0.09 mm for the central incisors, 5.67 ± 0.07 mm for the lateral incisors, and 8.6 ± 0.08 mm for the canines. The minimum thickness was 0.4–0.6 mm on the buccal side of the canines of 5% of the participants, whereas the maximum thickness reached 9.6–11.4 mm on the palatal side of the central incisors of 12% of the participants.

Results: These values varied by pathology subclass and the presence of dehiscence or fenestrations identified on CBCT. When planning orthodontic treatment for patients with distoclusion, torque selection for self-ligating brackets on maxillary incisors and canines should account for the individual tooth bone thickness analysis from CBCT data. Brackets with high or standard torque are preferred because they optimize root positioning within the bone during tooth movement.

Conclusions: Thus, the pretreatment selection of bracket parameters facilitates root movement toward the center of the alveolar process, where bone volume is sufficient, ensuring stable interocclusal contacts. This approach to parameter selection corrects the bite and enhances overall somatic health.