Applicability of Tooth Size Prediction Methods in Sudanese Adolescents

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective To test the applicability of the methods proposed by Tanaka and Johnston, Bernabe and Floris-Mir, and Melgaco et al. in Sudanese children; and to propose new prediction equations, if required, using the best combination of the teeth. Materials and Methods Dental casts were obtained from 120 Sudanese children (60 males and 60 females) aged 13–17 years (mean = 14.8 years; SD = 1.00 years). Mesiodistal tooth widths were measured to 0.01 mm using a sliding caliper with a Vernier scale. Paired and independent student t-tests were used to determine the differences in the contralateral sides and genders, respectively. Paired student’s t-test was used to compare the actual sum of permanent canine and premolars with the predicted one. Correlation and linear regression analyses were performed. Results No statistically significant differences in mesiodistal tooth widths were observed between the contralateral sides, conversely, genders showed significant differences. Statistically significant differences were found in the prediction methods, except in the mandibular arch of males for Tanaka and Johnston’s method. All the methods overestimated the actual sum of permanent canines and premolars. The sum of the mandibular permanent lateral incisors and first molars was considered the best predictor, with moderate correlation and determination coefficients (r= 0.557–0.690 and r2 = 0.288–0.477, respectively). Conclusions A limitation was found in the application of the methods proposed by Tanaka and Johnston, Bernabe and Floris-Mir and Melgaco et al. Therefore, new prediction equations with more accuracy were proposed for Sudanese children.