Kieferhöhe

Kieferhöhe is a German term that translates to “jaw height.” In anatomy and dentistry, it is used to describe the vertical dimension of the jaw, with particular emphasis on the mandible and the height of the alveolar process that supports teeth. In clinical contexts, the term often refers to the available vertical bone height for prosthetic rehabilitation, including dentures and implants, and it can influence occlusion and aesthetics.

In anatomical terms, Kieferhöhe may denote the vertical extent of the mandible from its inferior border to the alveolar crest. In dental practice, it is commonly assessed as part of treatment planning to determine the space available for prosthetic components, including implant length and stability. Measurements are typically obtained through imaging methods such as panoramic radiographs or cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and may also involve clinical landmarks. Reference points for height can vary by region, specialty, and imaging modality.

Factors affecting Kieferhöhe include tooth loss and ensuing alveolar bone resorption, aging, periodontal disease, trauma, and systemic bone conditions. Reduced jaw height can complicate prosthetic rehabilitation and may necessitate augmentation procedures to achieve sufficient support for implants or dentures. Treatment options for insufficient height range from vertical bone augmentation and guided bone regeneration to distraction osteogenesis, onlay grafts, or the use of alternative implants such as tilted or zygomatic implants, depending on the case.

See also: alveolar ridge height, vertical dimension of occlusion, orthodontic and surgical planning.