Influence of the maxillary dimensions and anterior teeth anatomy on the buccal impaction of upper permanent canines: A three-dimensional case-control study

Abstract

The diagnosis of impacted upper permanent canines (IUPC) is a relatively common clinical finding. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of the buccal impaction of upper permanent canines with their dimensions and the maxilla bone base. Cone beam computed tomography files of 66 patients were allocated into: impaction group (ICG/n=33/mean age 15.7±3.9years), with 44 impacted canines by the buccal side; control group (CG/n=33/mean age 15.66±3.99years), matched for age and sex, with 66 canines normally erupted. The following measurements were obtained from ICG and CG groups: linear and volumetric canine dimensions, linear measurements of upper permanent central and lateral incisors, measurements of the anterior perimeter and transverse segments of the maxilla. Independent Student's t-test was used for intergroup analysis with correction of Bonferroni (α=0,005). Higher values were found in the means of the variables regarding to the anterior teeth crowns in the ICG group, however, without a significant difference (P<0,005). The upper arch anterior perimeter of the individuals with canine impaction through buccal area was reduced compared to CG (P=0.001). It can be concluded that individuals with upper buccal impacted permanent canine showed a significantly smaller anterior perimeter of the maxillary arch when compared to the control group. Although greater canine mesiodistal diameter was found in this group, there is no statistical association with the occurrence of this condition.