Mixed dentition space analysis: a review

ABSTRACT

During mixed dentition period discrepancy between spaces available and required in the arch is predicted so that teeth can erupt freely with good alignment. Mixed dentition space analysis is done for this purpose in which size ofunerupted canine andpremolars is predicted. Accurate prediction is very important regarding correct orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. Prediction equation and or tables based on size of already erupted permanent teeth are the most widely used methods. Tooth size varies in different racial and ethnic groups and among genders so prediction equation and tables specific to each population for both male and female must be made. Mandibular incisors; combination ofmandibular incisors and mandibular 1[st] molars; and mandibular incisors and maxillary 1[st] molars have been used worldwide. Recent studies have reported that mandibular incisors are not the best predictors and sum ofmandibular incisors and maxillary 1[st] molars are even more accurate predictor for the estimation of size of unerupted teeth. In Pakistani population combination of mandibular incisors and maxillary 1[st] molar have not been employed so study must be conducted to estimate which combination of group of teeth is more accurate for the estimation of size of unerupted canine and premolars in local population