Relationship between dental arch width and vertical facial dimension in 8-17 year-old students in Isfahan

Considering the relationship between different measurements of facial skeleton, it is possible to use cephalometric and anthropometric indexes to classify different facial types, which is very important in orthodontic treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between dental arch width and vertical facial dimension in 8-17 year-old students in Isfahan. This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study was carried out on 96 casts and lateral cephalograms, which had been selected under specific conditions. The following measurements were carried out: inter-canine, inter-premolar, and inter-molar distances in both arches at three points: cusp tips, the most buccal aspect of each tooth and at the central fossa in molars. Data was analyzed with descriptive statistical tests, Pearson’s correlation coefficient and regression analysis using SPSS software (α = 0.05). Of all the variables evaluated only the inter-molar distances at central fossa and the most buccal aspect in the mandible had a significant relationship with the lower and total facial heights (p value < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant relationship was observed between dental arch width and age. Under the limitations of the present study, it was concluded that as the lower and anterior facial heights increase, the mandibular inter-molar widths at the central fossa and the most buccal aspect of the teeth decrease. Therefore, it is possible to predict, to some extent, the proper mandibular inter-molar widths by these vertical measurements.