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Mandibular Arch Morphology in Normodivergent Patients With Impacted Maxillary Canines: A Case-Control Study
Mauro Lorusso1, Michele Tepedino2, Luigi Pio Marra1
1Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Dental School of Foggia, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy, unifg.it.
International Journal of Dentistry
|May 28, 2026
Summary
Mandibular arch shape varies in individuals with impacted maxillary canines compared to those with normal canine eruption. These distinct mandibular arch characteristics are linked to whether the canine impaction is palatal or buccal, aiding diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics and Dental Morphology
- Craniofacial Development and Anatomy
Background:
- Maxillary canine impaction is a common clinical finding.
- While maxillary factors are studied, mandibular arch morphology's role in canine impaction is less understood.
- Investigating mandibular arch form provides insights into the etiology and diagnosis of impacted maxillary canines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and compare the mandibular arch form in patients with buccally impacted maxillary canines, palatally impacted maxillary canines, and controls with physiologic canine eruption.
- To determine if specific mandibular morphologic characteristics are associated with different types of maxillary canine impaction.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 96 normodivergent Class I subjects (10-12 years old) was divided into three groups: buccal impaction (n=32), palatal impaction (n=32), and controls (n=32).
- Mandibular arch morphology was analyzed using angular morphometrics on digital models, calculating anterior and posterior angle sums.
- Cephalometric variables controlled for skeletal relationships; statistical analyses (MANOVA, ANOVA, post hoc tests) identified intergroup differences.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in mandibular arch morphology were found across the groups (p < 0.001).
- The palatal impaction group showed significantly lower ArGoMe values and posterior angle sums compared to the buccal impaction and control groups.
- The buccal impaction group exhibited significantly lower anterior angle sums than both the palatal impaction and control groups.
Conclusions:
- Mandibular arch morphology differs significantly between individuals with impacted maxillary canines and those with normal eruption.
- Distinct mandibular arch characteristics are associated with palatal versus buccal maxillary canine impaction.
- Mandibular arch assessment can complement diagnostic evaluations for impacted maxillary canines.
