Comparative measurement of mesiodistal width of six anterior maxillary and mandibular teeth in Rajasthan population

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine the mesiodistal width of six anterior teeth for better esthetics and good tooth arrangement in a cross section of Rajasthan population. The mesiodistal dimension of central, lateral incisor and canine on right and left sides was measured in 250 males and 250 females, these readings were used to determine the mean, minimum and maximum maxillary/mandibular teeth 'anterior ratio', difference in mesiodistal width, combined mean mesiodistal width, the number and percent of similar teeth of maxilla and mandible. It was observed from the present study that there is variation in mesiodistal width in right and left sides signifying that the anterior teeth are not mirror images of one another. Male subjects have greater mesiodistal width than female subjects and right side dominates inmost of the readings indicating that mesiodistalwidth is greater on right side than on left side. Percentage variability and sexual dimorphism are also important findings of this study. This study can prove helpful in replacement of artificial teeth of prosthesis in this cross section of population. © Indian Prosthodontic Society 2011.