Appraising number and clinical significance of regression equations to predict unerupted canines and premolars.

A sound statistical or clinical reason for proposing several single linear regression equations (SLRE) for predicting unerupted canine and premolar tooth-width sums is needed. The purpose of this study was to develop a methodology to evaluate the number and the clinical significance of SLRE required. A 6-step methodology is presented that permits evaluating the number and the clinical significance of SLRE required for predicting unerupted canine and premolar tooth-width sums. It is important not only to evaluate the statistical need for specific SLRE in different populations, but also to state the clinical significance of their differences against commonly used SLRE.