Morphological Analysis of the Maxillary Arch and Hard Palate in Edentulous Maxilla of South Indian Dry Skulls

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the role of aging\edentulousness on the maxillary arch, the size of the alveolar process, the shape and thickness of the hard palate in the South Indian dry skulls to customize more appropriate treatment of elderly edentulous patients.

Methods: One hundred dry skulls were divided into dentate and edentulous groups and were subgrouped into male and female. They were subjected to various morphological and morphometrical analyses.

Results: The data have revealed a more significant reduction in the depth and width (p < 0.001) of the arch corresponding to the reduction in the size and thickness of the alveolar process (p < 0.001) in the edentulous skull. Further, a significant reduction in the size and thickness (p < 0.001) of the hard palate was observed in the edentulous skull. The data clearly indicate the effect of tooth loss in the horizontal regression of the maxilla. Furthermore, it may enhance the bone resorption that can ultimately result in the marked reduction of the width and depth of the alveolar arch concomitant with the alteration of the hard palate. These changes may subsequently alter the facial appearance in the elderly population.

Conclusion: The observed data from specific group of population may provide relevant data for their comparative analysis between different populations for a better understanding of their regional differences with respect to environmental and social influence. Moreover, the data can provide a better idea to evaluate a promising treatment strategy in prosthodontics and orthodontics in South India.