Proportional mesio-distal dimension of permanent maxillary teeth

Abstract

Introduction: The mesio-distal dimension of the maxillary anterior teeth is important in achieving pleasing dento-facial esthetics. However, little scientific data exists that evaluates sexual dimorphism and proportional dimensions of maxillary anterior teeth Purpose this study is thus to identify weather there is any sexual dimorphism observed between mesiodistal (M-D) dimension of permanent maxillary anterior teeth and to determine proportionate dimension of permanent maxillary anterior teeth.

Material and Methods: Gypsum casts of 80 fully dentate dental students (14-30 years) were included in the study based upon the selection criteria.

Results: Mesiodistal dimension of permanent maxillary anterior teeth and their proportionate relationship were established for establishment of norms for mesiodistal dimensions. Mesio-distal dimensions of male dentition for both right and left side teeth were greater than those of females (for the population in question), in accordance with previous studies. Ratio of mesiodistal crown dimensions of the maxillary lateral incisors to the maxillary central incisors was 78.06% in females and 80.73% in males. Ratio of the mesiodistal crown dimension of the maxillary lateral incisors to the maxillary canine was 87.96% in females and 90.77% in males and lastly, ratio of mesiodistal crown dimension of the maxillary canine to maxillary central Incisors was 89.36% in females and 88.94% in males.

Conclusions: Mesio-distal dimensions of six anterior maxillary teeth measured from contact point to contact point were found to be comparable with existing data in the literature. Sexual dimorphism was evident from results. Conclusively, such guidelines in addition to the absolute mesio-distal dimensions can help in establishing better anterior micro-esthetics and tooth-lip relationships.