A 40 Years Follow-Up of Dental Arch Dimensions and Incisor Irregularity in Adults. Tsiopas N, Nilner M, et al:
Eur J Orthod; 2013; 35 (April): 230-235
Significant dentoalveolar changes occur between age 20 and 60 years, including decreased intercanine widths and increased lower incisor irregularity.
Results: Significant dentoalveolar changes were seen over the 40-year study. In the maxilla, small decreases in arch length (0.5 mm), intercanine width (0.8 mm), and arch depth (0.9 mm) were noted. In the mandible, a decrease in arch length (0.7 mm) and intercanine width (1.1 mm) was also seen, along with an increase in Little’s irregularity index (mean, 1 mm). No significant changes in malocclusion traits, overbite, and overjet were observed.
Conclusions: Long-term changes occur in the dental arch dimensions over time, even in non-growing adults. These changes must be considered when planning orthodontic retention.
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