Prediction of Mesiodistal Width of the Mandibular Permanent Canines and Premolars by Utilizing the Mesiodistal Width of Mandibular First Permanent Molars and Incisors

Introduction: Prediction of mesiodistal (MD) width of unerupted permanent canines and premolars is an essential aspect of mixed dentition analysis. Several methods are used to predict tooth width. The best methods demonstrate high values of correlation and determination coeffi cients. In this study, we aimed to determine the linear regression equation that would predict the sum of the MD widths of mandibular permanent canines and premolars based on the sum of widths of the four mandibular permanent incisors and fi rst permanent molars. Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of 100 dental casts, obtained from Indian patients (50 male, 50 female, age ranges from 13 to 18 years). MD widths were measured with an electronic digital caliper. Paired and unpaired t-tests were used to determine measurement consistencies and the inter-examiner calibration, respectively. Unpaired t-test was also used to determine right/left side and sex differences. Paired t-test was also used to compare the predicted and actual sum of width of mandibular permanent canines and premolars. Results: We found high values of correlation (r) and determination (r2) coeffi cients (i.e., r = 0.746 and r2 = 0.557). On average, there was no difference between predicted and actual widths of the mandibular permanent canines and premolars, and the standard errors of estimation were 1.69, 1.48, and 1.69 mm for the males, females, and the total sample, respectively. Conclusion: The proposed method showed good accuracy and was easy to use, but it must be tested for other population.