Scan Aided Dental Arch Width Prediction via Internationally Recognized Formulas and Indices in a Sample of Kurdish Population/Iraq

Abstract

Background: Numerous studies have investigated the applicability of Pont’s index using a variety of selection criteria. The morphology of teeth and the shapes of the face are significantly influenced by racial, cultural, and environmental factors, so the current study focused on these demographics. Methods: This study is a retrospective study and included one hundred intraoral scanned images selected from patients seeking orthodontic treatment. Medit design software was used to obtain the real measurements and compare them to the predicted values from Pont’s index. Paired t tests were used to test the validity of Pont’s index, and regression equations were advocated to predict the inter-molar, inter-premolar, and anterior arch widths via SPSS version 25. Results: There were significant differences between the real anterior, inter-premolar, and inter-molar widths and the predicted values obtained from Pont’s index, and there were weak positive correlations between the real values and the predicted values from Pont’s index. Conclusions: Pont’s index is not reliable to predict the arch widths for the Kurdish population, and new formulas are advocated. Hence, space analysis, malocclusion treatment, and arch expansion therapy should all take into account these results. Therefore, the derived equations may have further positive effects on diagnoses and treatment preparation.

Orthodontic Implementation of Machine Learning Algorithms for Predicting Some Linear Dental Arch Measurements and Preventing Anterior Segment Malocclusion: A Prospective Study

“…It is important to follow a rigorous research methodology, ensure data accuracy, and prioritize ethical considerations to produce meaningful results that can benefit orthodontic practice. Because Pont's index is not trustworthy in forecasting arch widths for the Kurdish population, alternative formulae to estimate inter-molar, inter-premolar, and anterior arch widths were recommended [17].…”

Digital Model in Orthodontics: Is It Really Necessary for Every Treatment Procedure? A Scoping Review

“…The digital model that is produced may be preferred when compared to a conventional setup due to higher tolerance, increased comfort, a lesser risk of allergic reactions, and ease of data storage, recovery, and transfer [14,17,18]. However, the prediction of dental arch widths in cases of crowded or spaced dentition and class II or class III malocclusions is an area that requires further research [19].…”