Dentoalveolar Height
The vertical measurement of the alveolar bone and associated dentition from the alveolar crest to the apical region, used to assess vertical development in treatment planning.
Full Definition
Dentoalveolar height refers to the vertical extent of the alveolar process as measured on cephalometric or periapical radiographs, reflecting the vertical position and support of the teeth within the jaw. It is a key parameter in diagnosing hyperdivergent or hypodivergent facial patterns and in planning vertical dimension changes. An increase in dentoalveolar height in the posterior region may contribute to open bite development, while a decrease may indicate skeletal deep bite. Editors should not conflate this measurement with overall facial height or with 'vertical dimension of occlusion.' It appears frequently in case reports and treatment planning summaries.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish carefully from 'lower anterior facial height,' which is a cephalometric measurement between skeletal landmarks, not solely the alveolar process.
In Context
- "Increased posterior dentoalveolar height was identified as the primary etiological factor in the patient's anterior open bite." — Case report
- "Treatment objectives included controlling dentoalveolar height to prevent clockwise mandibular rotation." — Treatment planning document