The extent of proximal contact area of maxillary anterior teeth: a cross-sectional study

The interproximal contact area (ICA) is the zone in which two adjacent teeth appear to meet. The absence of the ICA defines the diastema. The study aimed to assess the extent of interproximal contact zone at the level of maxillary anterior teeth among a sample representing the Tunisian population. It also aimed to assess the correlation between the anterior contact area and the dimensions. It was a cross-sectional study conducted at the Faculty of Dental Medicine, Tunisia. Only young Participants with a full, intact anterior dentition. Those who underwent previous orthodontic treatment, had decayed, restored, or crowned anterior teeth were excluded. An alginate impression was taken. Then, on casts, the height and the width of teeth and the extent of interproximal contact area of maxillary anterior teeth were measured using a digital caliper. The largest contact area was between the central incisors. Between central Incisors, its average was 4.57 ± 0.88 mm. Between central and lateral incisors, it was about 3.17 ± 0. 69 mm. Between the lateral Incisor and canine, it was about 2.46 ± 0.63. The average PCAP was 47.54 ± 8.84 mm. between central Incisors. Between the Central Incisor and the Lateral Incisor was 38.75 ± 8.22 mm, and 26.75 ± 6.23 mm between the Lateral Incisor and the Canine. Statistically significant differences between different sides were reported. It was not significant between the two genders, either. This area decreases from the midline. Guidelines about the proportionate existence of white and pink components should be respected to optimize esthetic outcomes and ensure patient satisfaction.