Dental Cast Measurement Variations in Patients with Maxillary Anterior Crowding: A Comparative Study

Background: Dental crowding, a common orthodontic issue, arises due to a mismatch between tooth size and jaw dimensions, significantly affecting dentofacial aesthetics. This study focused on maxillary anterior crowding (M x AC) to investigate its relationship with the tooth size and jaw dimensions. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 80 participants divided into two groups: 40 with normal occlusion (control) and 40 with MxAC occlusion. Dental casts were prepared using alginate impressions and dental stones, and measurements were taken for mesiodistal dimensions, arch width, arch depth, overbite, overjet, and arch length discrepancy using a modified sliding caliper gauge. Differences between the two groups were compared using an independent t-test. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: Significant differences were observed in tooth dimensions and arch measurements between the M × AC and control groups (P< 0.001). The M × AC group had larger dental crowns (except for the first molar), smaller overjet, and greater arch length discrepancy. The control group exhibited larger arch widths in the first premolar, second premolar, and first molar positions, but not in the canine position (P=0.420). Additionally, the M x AC group had significantly smaller arch depths at the canine, first, and second premolar positions (P< 0.001). However, no significant difference was observed between the groups in dental arch depth at the first molar position (P=0.120). Conclusion: The study found significant differences in tooth dimensions and dental arch measurements between the M × AC and control groups. The M × AC group had larger dental crowns (except for the first molar), less overjet, and greater arch length discrepancy. Arch widths for the premolars and the first molar were larger in the control group, while the M x AC group had smaller arch depths at the canine and premolar positions. These findings underscore the need for customized orthodontic treatment.