Tooth size-arch length relationships in the deciduous dentition: a comparison between contemporary and historical samples

Abstract

In a recent study, it was reported that maxillary and mandibular arch lengths were significantly shorter in a sample of contemporary children in the deciduous dentition compared with a historical sample from about 50 years earlier. The purpose of this study was to describe secular changes that might have occurred in tooth sizes and tooth size-arch length relationships in the same cohorts of contemporary and historical North American white children in the deciduous dentition. The 2 samples were similar in terms of geographic location, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and socioeconomic status. Both samples were restricted to white children with a normal overjet (<4 mm) and a normal anteroposterior molar relationship, no anterior open bite, and no crossbite. In addition, subjects were excluded if any permanent teeth were erupted. Measurements of mesiodistal tooth sizes and arch lengths of maxillary and mandibular arches were made, and tooth size-arch length discrepancies (TSALD) were determined. The results indicated that tooth sizes were generally similar in the 2 cohorts but slightly larger in contemporary children. Crowding, as measured by TSALD, was found to be common in the mandibular arch for contemporary children in the deciduous dentition of both boys and girls. Moreover, crowding was much more common and severe in contemporary children compared with children in the historical cohort. Further research is needed to determine whether the increase in mandibular crowding in the deciduous dentition will continue to be observed in the mixed and permanent dentitions and to further establish these possible secular trends.