An index for assessing tooth shape deviations as applied to the mandibular incisors

Abstract

I t has been shown that naturally well-aligned mandibular incisors possess distinctive dimensional characteristics; these teeth are significantly smaller mesiodistally and significantly larger faciolingually, when compared with average population tooth dimensions. 1 It appears, therefore, that tooth shape (mesiodistal and faciolingual dimensions) is a determining factor in the presence and absence of lower incisor cr0wding.l These new findings have stimulated this present effort. The purpose of this article is to present the scientific basis and the clinical application of a new method for detecting and evaluating tooth shape deviations of the mandibular incisors.