Curve of spee: a literature review

Abstract

The curve of Spee (COS) is an important characteristic of the dental arch that was described as an occlusal curvature seen in the sagittal plane. This natural phenomenon has clinical importance in orthodontics and restorative dentistry. This study aim to gather the current knowledge of COS in order to become a guide for a construction of an optimal occlusion. The methodology utilized was a review and compilation of the most pertinent literature articles. The following were deliberated in this review: development, measurement, evolutive similarities, gender, side, properties, the purpose of levelling, the sorts of levelling and the long-term stability of the COS. In conclusion, although a large amount of research on COS already exists, there is no standard methodology to define an ideal model of treatment and/or prevention. Nevertheless, its results give dentists a complete overview to establish their approach towards a successful long-term stability treatment.