Individual-based prediction of the size of the supporting zones in the permanent dentition. A comparison of the Moyers method with a unitary prediction value.

The aims of this individual-based study were 1. to assess the actual space requirements of the permanent canines and premolars, 2. to test the reliability of the Moyers method in predicting a space deficiency at the 75% confidence level and 3. to try to find a reliable unitary prediction value (= unitary value) as a possible substitute for the calculated Moyers values. Dental cast measurements were taken of the permanent dentition of 100 females and 100 males. The average sum of the widths of the maxillary and mandibular permanent canines and premolars was 20.8 mm (17.3 to 24.3 mm). The Moyers method could predict a maxillary space deficiency in 77.5% and a mandibular space deficiency in 65.5% of the subjects. The unitary value of 22.0 mm made it possible to predict a space deficiency in 83.5% of the subjects. The unitary value thus had a higher confidence level (83.5%) than the 75% level stated by Moyers and might thus substitute the calculated Moyers values. Furthermore, the unitary value is easy and quick to handle.