Changes in the dental arches and dentition between 25 and 45 years of age

The purpose of this longitudinal investigation was to study changes in the dental arches and dentition that occur in midadulthood in an untreated, normal sample. The subjects had Class I molar and canine relationships with less than 4.0 mm of overjet and less than 50% overbite. None had undergone previous orthodontic treatment. Evaluations and measurements were made from dental casts and periapical radiographic surveys of 15 females and 15 males from approximately 25 years to 46 years. The findings indicate that over the span of the study, significant changes occur in the maxillary and mandibular dental arches and dentition in both males and females, including a clinically significant increase in tooth size-arch length (circumference) discrepancy. These changes should be considered part of the normal maturational process and should be taken into consideration when planning treatment and retention options for adolescent and adult patients.