A method of mixed dentition analysis in the mandible

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Dental Anthropology

Background:

• Accurate prediction of unerupted tooth dimensions is crucial for orthodontic treatment planning.
• Existing methods for estimating tooth size and arch discrepancies have varying degrees of accuracy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel space analysis method, the Interlateral Incisor Width (I.L.I.W.) Analysis, for the mandibular arch.
• To compare the accuracy of the I.L.I.W. Analysis with established methods (Ono, Moyers, Ballard and Wylie).

Main Methods:

• A new measurement technique, I.L.I.W. Analysis, was developed based on the relationship between mandibular incisor and canine/premolar widths.
• Measurements were taken from 119 Japanese children without malocclusion using a digital caliper and handheld computer.
• Statistical analysis, including correlation coefficients, was used to compare prediction accuracy.

Main Results:

• The I.L.I.W. Analysis demonstrated the highest correlation (r = 0.63) between actual and predicted mesiodistal dimensions of mandibular canines and premolars.
• While I.L.I.W. showed the best correlation, all tested methods exhibited relatively low correlations.
• The I.L.I.W. method proved clinically valid due to its simplicity and in-mouth applicability.

Conclusions:

• The I.L.I.W. Analysis is a clinically useful and simple method for estimating unerupted mandibular canine and premolar dimensions.
• Combining the I.L.I.W. Analysis with radiographic methods is recommended for enhanced accuracy in orthodontic space analysis.