Comparative evaluation of the volumetric and morphological characteristics of resorbed and non-resorbed maxillary lateral incisors associated with impacted canine.

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the morphological characteristics of resorbed and non-resorbed lateral incisors adjacent to unilateral palatally impacted maxillary canines intended to be positioned in the dental arch during orthodontic treatment. The volumetric and morphological differences between lateral incisors adjacent to impacted canines and those adjacent to erupted canines were examined.

METHODS

The study group consisted of fifty participants with unilateral palatally impacted maxillary canines. The sample was divided into two groups: the resorbed group (RG) and the non-resorbed group (NRG), based on the resorption status of the lateral incisor adjacent to the maxillary impacted canine. Volumetric, dimensional, and angular differences were evaluated between these groups.

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference was found between the RG and NRG groups in terms of lateral incisors. In both groups, there was a statistically significant decrease in lateral incisor volume, mesiodistal and buccolingual root width, and crown-root angle on the impacted side compared to the other side. In the RG group, the cervical, middle, and apical third volumes of the resorbed lateral root on the impacted side were statistically lower than on the other side.

CONCLUSIONS

In the RG and NRG groups, the volume and morphological features of the lateral incisors adjacent to the impacted canines were similar and smaller than those of the lateral incisors on the erupted side. In cases where it is desired to maintain the lateral incisors, whether slightly resorbed or not, in the dental arch, it is recommended that orthodontic treatment be optimized for stabilization.