Assessment of Mesiodistal Angulation of Maxillary Lateral Incisors: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introuction: Idealistic prosthodontic treatment goals differ for different ethnic groups around the world. Dentogenic concept provides a quality of treatment and a more natural, harmonious and pleasing prosthesis as desired by patients. Providing natural and satisfactory aesthetics is especially important for anterior tooth prosthesis. Various degrees of crown angulation, have significant effect on attractiveness of smile. Aim: To study the degree of mesiodistal angulation of maxillary right and left lateral incisors in both genders of different age groups, to guide in the arrangement of teeth fulfilling the fundamentals by providing a functionally and aesthetically satisfactory denture. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Prosthodontics at College of Dental Sciences, Davangere, Karnataka, India, from June 2012 to May 2015. A total of 500 patients with normal maxillomandibular relationship (250 males and 250 females) were included in the study and were divided into three age groups i.e, group A (21- 30 years), group B (31-40 years), group C (41-50 years). Clinical examination of patients was performed and dental casts of these patients were studied. A custom-made positioning jig was used to measure the mesiodistal angulations of maxillary right and left lateral incisors. The results were obtained by statistical analysis using paired-t test, One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s Post-Hoc tests. Results: The mean value for mesiodistal angulation of maxillary right and left lateral incisors in males was found to be 6.648±0.9889 and 6.704±1.0042 degrees, respectively. The mean value for mesiodistal angulation of maxillary right and left lateral incisors in females, was found to be 6.592±0.8296 and 6.580±0.8381 degrees, respectively. Conclusion: The mesiodistal angulation of maxillary lateral incisors was comparatively greater in males than in females and the variation in the angulation was slightly more for maxillary left lateral incisors. The values for mesiodistal angulations of maxillary lateral incisors can serve, as guidelines for the arrangement of teeth and help in achieving desired aesthetics, provide adequate lip support and restore required functions.