Mixed dentition analysis in a Jordanian population.

Area of Science:

• Dental Anthropology
• Orthodontics
• Forensic Odontology

Background:

• Accurate prediction of tooth size is crucial for various dental applications, including orthodontics and forensic identification.
• Existing prediction methods, such as the Tanaka and Johnston equations, may not be universally applicable across diverse ethnic populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the accuracy of the Tanaka and Johnston prediction method in a Jordanian population.
• To develop new, population-specific prediction equations for mesiodistal tooth crown diameters in Jordanians.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 367 Jordanian schoolchildren (mean age 15.5 years) from Amman was randomly selected.
• Mesiodistal crown diameters of permanent teeth were measured and compared to values predicted by Tanaka and Johnston equations.
• New linear regression equations were derived for both male and female participants.

Main Results:

• Significant sexual dimorphism was observed in tooth sizes among the Jordanian sample.
• The Tanaka and Johnston equations showed significant differences when compared to actual measurements.
• Correlation coefficients between mandibular incisors and other teeth were 0.60 (maxillary) and 0.66 (mandibular).
• New gender-specific regression equations were developed for tooth size prediction in Jordanians.

Conclusions:

• The Tanaka and Johnston prediction method has limited applicability to the Jordanian population.
• Separate prediction equations are necessary for male and female Jordanian patients to ensure accuracy.
• The study provides a foundation for more precise dental analysis within this demographic.