Evaluation of skeletal and dentoalveolar dimensions in patients with maxillary unilateral impacted canine: a cone beam computed tomographic study

Objective To assess the skeletal and dentoalveolar dimensions of subjects with the unilateral maxillary-impacted canine and compare it with the non-impacted side using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods A split-mouth study that included 26 CBCTs (52 sides) with unilateral impacted canine was designed. The parameters analyzed were alveolar height; bucco palatal width at 2 mm, 6 mm, and 10 mm from alveolar crest; premolar width; lateral angulation of incisors; root length of lateral incisors; and crown-root angulation of lateral incisors. Obtained data were statistically analyzed by unpaired independent t-test. Results The bucco palatal width at 2 mm and the premolar width from mid-palatal raphe were 1.22 mm and 1.71 mm less on the impacted side, respectively; the central and lateral incisor angulations were less by 3.69 degrees and 3.40 degrees, respectively, on the impacted side; the lateral incisor root length was 2.8 mm shorter on the impacted side; the crown-root angulation for lateral incisor was 2.4 degrees more on the impacted side. Conclusion The following conclusions can be drawn: (1) The premolar width is less on the impacted side. (2) The incisors are more distally angulated on the impacted side. (3) The crown-root angulation of the lateral incisor is mesially directed on the impacted side. Clinical relevance Asymmetric arch expansions should be undertaken in severe transverse asymmetries. In the beginning stages of treatment, the arch alignment, excluding incisors, must be undertaken to safeguard the roots of incisors.