Long-term changes of the anterior palatal alveolar bone after treatment with bialveolar protrusion, evaluated with computed tomography

This case report describes the treatment of a 31-year-old woman with a convex profile, protrusive maxilla, retrusive mandible, and gummy smile. Four premolars were extracted, and micro-implant anchorage was used to retract the anterior teeth. Lip protrusion and the gummy smile were improved, but the computed tomography images showed dehiscence on the palatal alveolar bone of the maxillary incisors. Approximately 10 years after treatment, significant alveolar bone apposition was seen on the palatal surface of the maxillary anterior teeth. •Excessive retraction of the maxillary incisors may cause alveolar bone dehiscence.•Coverage of healthy thick gingiva may affect alveolar bone regeneration.•Bialveolar protrusion was corrected by retracting anterior teeth with a micro-implant.•Ten years after treatment, significant alveolar bone apposition was observed.