Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026
07:32
Measuring Maxillary Posterior Tooth Movement: A Model Assessment using Palatal and Dental Superimposition
Published on: February 23, 2024
Guidelines for maxillary incisal edge position-a pilot study: the key is the canine
1Clinical Professor and Director, Oral Implantology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA.
Summary
This study found that canine exposure to the lip line is more consistent than central incisor exposure in dentate patients. Canine measurements can help guide the restoration of edentulous patients.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral Rehabilitation
- Esthetic Dentistry
Background:
- The vertical positioning of anterior teeth relative to the lips is crucial for smile aesthetics.
- Establishing reliable guidelines for edentulous patient rehabilitation requires understanding natural tooth exposure in dentate individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the relationship between maxillary central incisal edge and canine vertical position relative to the lip line in repose.
- To determine if these measurements can inform guidelines for rehabilitating edentulous patients.
Main Methods:
- One hundred four Caucasian dentate patients (30-59 years) were assessed.
- Maxillary incisor and canine positions were measured in millimeters relative to the lip line at rest.
- Data were analyzed based on sex and age groups.
Main Results:
- Maxillary central incisor exposure showed a wide range (-1 to +8 mm in females, -3 to +7 mm in males).
- Canine exposure exhibited a narrower range (females: -2 to +2 mm; males: -3 to +2 mm).
- Average canine exposure was consistently within 1 mm across sexes and age groups.
Conclusions:
- Maxillary central incisor exposure is highly variable and not predictable for assessing incisal edge position.
- Canine exposure dimensions are more consistent and can be clinically utilized for restoring edentulous patients.
- Further research is recommended to validate these findings for clinical application.
