A Correlation Analysis between Arch Width and Molar Inclination Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Transverse Measurements: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

A new era in 3-dimensional analysis has begun with the use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in orthodontics, which promises to provide a more thorough understanding of the craniofacial skeletal architecture. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the transverse basal arches discrepancy and dental compensation by utilizing CBCT width analysis. An observational study was conducted to retrospectively review 88 CBCT scans of patients presented to dental clinics from 2014 to 2020 obtained from the Planmeca Romexis x-ray system at three centers. Dental compensation data across normal and narrow maxillae were analyzed and a Pearson correlation was used to find the relationship between molar inclination and width difference. Significant maxillary molar compensation differences were observed between the normal maxilla and narrow maxilla group, where the amount of dental compensation (164.73 ± 10.15) was higher in the narrow maxilla group. A significant negative correlation (r = −0.37) was observed between width difference and maxillary molar inclination. Maxillary molars were tipped buccally to compensate for the reduced maxillary arch width. These findings are important to determine the amount of needed maxillary expansion taking into account the buccal inclination while treating cases.