Prediction of Mesiodistal Diameter of Unerupted Second Premolars and Canines Non-radiographically

Abstract

Introduction : Prediction of the mesiodistal width of unerupted permanent canines and premolars is of majorinterest for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. This prediction is used to determine the tooth size-arch length discrepancy in the mixed dentition which is often made before eruption of the permanentcanines and first and second premolars. Method: The intraoral periapical radiograph of mandibular premolar region was taken. Records of 20 patients aged 13 to 14 yrs of Marathwada region with unerupted second premolar was considered. The actual measurements compared with the predicted values derived from the Tanaka and Johnston and Boston university equations. Result: Two prediction method Tanaka Johnston and Boston University show significant result for marathwada population. Conclusion: Depending on the stage of dental development, i.e., which deciduous and permanent teeth are present, the Tanaka/Johnston approach can be used when the four mandibular incisors have completely erupted, whereas the Boston University approach can be used when all the deciduous canines and first molars are still present.