TOOTH SIZE, ARCH FORM AND DIMENSIONS IN HYPODONTIA PATIENTS
Research type
Research Study
Full title
AN INVESTIGATION OF TOOTH SIZE, ARCH FORM AND DIMENSIONS IN A HYPODONTIA PATIENT GROUP
IRAS ID
169068
Contact name
Shane Higgins
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Research Governance and Ethics Manager, University of Birmingham
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 3 months, 1 days
Research summary
The aim of this study is to investigate whether there are differences in the tooth size, dental arch form (shape) and dental arch dimensions of patients who have hypodontia (congenitally missing permanent teeth).
Although 4.5% of the UK population have hypodontia, there is an absence of research related to arch dimensions and arch form of hypodontia patients. Archform and arch dimension assessment is an integral part of orthodontic treatment. Studies have suggested that if archform changes occur during orthodontic treatment there is a strong likelihood for it to return to its pre-treatment position post-retention. If a relationship exists between hypodontia and arch form/arch dimension it will be an important finding for the orthodontic care of this patient group.
Comprehensive orthodontic treatment aims to obtain an optimal final occlusion, overbite, and overjet. The relationship of the total width of the maxillary teeth to that of the mandibular teeth will influence this. A significant variation in these widths, which is commonly seen in hypodontia patients, should be compensated for in the treatment planning, otherwise a compromised occlusion may result. While there have been many studies comparing the size of teeth in hypodontia patients there are few which assess the tooth size in different racial groups. A greater awareness of any potential difference may add to and improve our understanding and orthodontic management of these patients.
Subjects will be drawn from patients who have been treated at the Orthodontic department at Birmingham Dental Hospital. Medically fit and well, White or Asian, male or female subjects who have an established permanent dentition will be included.
The study will involve retrospective analysis of dental study casts which have already been taken as part of normal clinical management during orthodontic assessment or treatment. There will be no effect on subjects clinical management.
REC name
East of Scotland Research Ethics Service REC 2
REC reference
15/ES/0090
Date of REC Opinion
15 Jun 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion