Prediction of the size of un-erupted permanent cuspids and bicuspids in a Saudi sample: a pilot study

The purpose of this study was to produce an estimated equation for the prediction of unerupted cuspids and bicuspids for the Saudi population. In this study, dental casts of 65 Saudi subjects (37 males and 28 females) were used. The subjects' age ranged from 18 to 25 years. The mesiodistal width of all permanent teeth was measured. The data was subjected to regression analysis. Results showed the Tanaka and Johnston equations overestimate the predicted tooth width of the un-erupted cuspids and bicuspids in Saudis. Results showed the predicted tooth width of Saudis (males and females) is closer to the 50% level of confidence in Moyer's chart. Multiple regression equations were estimated including the sex factor. Accordingly, two equations were estimated for the prediction of the tooth width of the un-erupted cuspids and bicuspids for the Saudi males and females. Based on the results, it can be concluded the 50% data is more accurate than the commonly used percentage Moyer's table (75%) when both sexes are combined. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings of this study.