Effect of deep overbite and curve of Spee on Wits appraisal with bisecting and functional occlusal planes

Abstract

Introduction: Various cephalometric analysis and their interpretations aid orthodontists in planning treatments. The aim of this study was to compare the differences in Wits appraisal with functional and bisecting occlusal planes in deep bite vs normal overbite and curve of Spee patients. In addition association of this difference with sagittal and vertical skeletal discrepancies was also assessed.

Material and Methods: 40 cephalograms each in deep and normal overbite cases were traced with Wits appraisal considering both functional and bisecting occlusal plane. The differences in Wits appraisal were assessed for any significant difference between deep and normal overbite groups and its correlations with curve of Spee, ANB, MMPA and other cephalometrics parameters were assessed.

Results: Group comparisons in Wits difference between deep and normal overbite yielded insignificant results (p=0.183). However when data were analyzed between deep (>2mm) and normal curve of Spee (<2mm), significant differences emerged (p=0.002). Only curve of Spee and overbite showed moderate (r= -0.421) and weak (r=-0.249) correlations with difference in Wits appraisals respectively.

Conclusion: Deep overbite alone does not seem to introduce major differences in the Wits appraisal with functional and bisecting occlusal planes. However in deep curve of Spee patients, this difference can be clinically significant.