Diagnosis of abnormalities of upper dental arch and its segments

Aim. To improve the graphic method of analysis of the upper dental arch and its segments, to increase the accuracy of upper dental arch abnormalities detection and to minimize orthodontist’s man-hours. Methods. The plaster models of 32 maxillae with dentoalveolar abnormalities were studied before and after treatment. The graphs of individual normal dental arches and its sizes were created by using the geometric and graphic method by Hawley-Herber-Herbst. The regularities were found based on the gained data; graphs of individual normal dental arches (stereotyped patterns) were created using the Adobe Photoshop CS3 software. Dentoalveolar abnormalities were visually examined by directed applying the stereotyped patterns and pictured before and after treatment. 64 models were examined overall. Results. A relation was found: incisors and canines dental crowns half-sum relates to the length and width of Hawley-Herber-Herbst individual normal dental arch graph as 1:2,3:1,3. Considering the relation found, the set of stereotyped patterns was created. The pattern was chosen for the studied model according to the patient incisors and canines dental crowns width. The visual examination allows to recognize and to record (take a picture) teeth malposition, abnormalities of the upper dental arch and its segments in transverse and sagittal planes for correction control. The photos of the models at different stages of orthodontic treatment with stereotyped patterns applied can be added to the patients’ medical chart, indicating the present occlusal rehabilitation success. Conclusion. The offered way of detection of upper dental arch and its segments abnormalities does not require significant time to be performed, is informative and can be implied to clarify the dentoalveolar abnormalities treatment plan.

orthodontia, dental occlusion, correction control, dental arch, schoolchildren, stereotyped patterns, numerical indexes