Morphology of Impacted Maxillary Canines: a Cone Beam Computed Tomography Study

Abstract

Introduction: The morphological features of impacted permanent maxillary canines (IMC) and the early and accurate diagnosis using 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images can be particularly important for the planning orthodontic and/or surgical treatment. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the morphological characteristics of impacted canines based on cone beam computed tomography study. Materials and methods: The estimated sample size included 30 subjects for this retrospective study. The CBCT images of unilateral impacted permanent maxillary canines were analysed using computer software such as White Fox Imaging, CS 3D Imaging and Sidexis 4 Viewer. The length and width of crown, root length, angle and direction of root dilaceration and length of the dilacerated part of the root of IMC and erupted contralateral canines were assessed. The position of IMC in the labial – palatal and medio – distal directions were also determined. The eruption path length, the depth of impaction and the height from the occlusal plane were assessed. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using SPSS 28.0.1 software. Results: There were statistically significant differences in the length and width of the crowns and root length of IMC and erupted contralateral canines. The depth of impaction and height from the occlusal plane were determined to be significantly dependent on the position of impacted canines in the labial – palatal direction. In addition, the direction of root dilaceration of IMC was found to be significantly dependent on the eruption path length of IMC, the depth of impaction and the position of IMC in the medio – distal direction (p<0,05). Conclusions: This study revealed statistically significant differences in morphological features between IMC and erupted contralateral canines. The crowns were significantly larger in length and width, while the roots were shorter on the impaction side.