Orthodontic probability tables for black patients of African descent: mixed dentition analysis

Mixed dentition space analyses form an essential part of orthodontic diagnostic procedures to determine the amount of space available for the accommodation of permanent teeth. The Moyers' probability tables for computing the sizes of unerupted canines and premolars were formulated at the University of Michigan from a sample consisting of northern European white subjects and are currently used worldwide. Because tooth sizes vary significantly between different population groups, it was the purpose of this study to construct relevant probability tables that would be more applicable to black subjects. Data were collected from a series of 100 randomly selected study models of black patients. The sample was equally subdivided by gender and all subjects had Angle Class I molar relationships with only minor malocclusions such as minor crowding, rotations, or diastemas. Two investigators independently measured the teeth on the study casts with a Vernier gauge that had sharpened calliper tips. Intraexaminer and interexaminer reliability was determined at 0.2 mm. All teeth to and including the first molars were measured. These data were then utilized in regression equations for both maxillary and mandibular arches, to enable the prediction of the mesiodistal widths of the canines and two premolars. The equations and predicted values were compared with those of the Moyers' probability tables, and significant differences (p <0.05) were found (except for the prediction of maxillary canines and premolars in females at the 85 and 95 percentile probability level). New probability tables for black subjects were formulated. It is envisaged that the proposed probability tables would be more accurate for black patients of African ancestry.