Comparison between Bolton analysis and Chu’s simplified method for calculating anterior tooth size discrepancy

Abstract

Introduction: To obtain an optimal occlusion, proper tooth proportions are necessary because the correct tooth mass of the maxillary and mandibular teeth permits ideal alignment in conjunction with full space closure. Bolton analysis is considered the gold standard for calculations of tooth size discrepancy. Chu’s introduced a method for establishing optimal tooth sizes in a manner that allows easy memorization of the formulae and determination of the best dimensions for teeth without the use of a calculator. The objective of present study is to compare the accuracy of Chu’s simplified method for calculating anterior tooth size discrepancy with that of Bolton’s method.

Material and Methods: The study was performed on 58 dental casts of untreated orthodontic patients, which were to undergo fixed orthodontic treatment in department of Orthodontics.

Results: Chu’s method for determining anterior tooth size discrepancy show over-estimation as compared to Bolton’s method, with an average difference of 2.33 ±1.3mm. Difference was highly significant statistically (p<0.001).

Conclusions: Chu’s method cannot be an accurate clinical substitute of Bolton’s method.