Prediction of lower canine and premolar widths in the mixed dentition.

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether, with multiple regression analysis, a more accurate method than is now available for predicting the widths of unerupted mandibular canines and premolars of mixed-dentition patients could be developed. Regression analyses were performed on data derived from 83 Caucasian subjects (42 males and 41 females) who participated in the Iowa Growth Study. Measurements were taken on plaster casts of the mandibular incisors, canines, premolars, and first molars. Measurements of the mandibular canines, premolars, and first molars were obtained from periapical radiographs taken with a long-cone technique. Newly developed regression equations for each sex had the highest correlation coefficients and smallest absolute errors of estimate when compared to previously published methods. The new equations and previous prediction methods were tested on a sample of 55 orthodontic patients (23 males and 32 females). The newly developed equations were also the most accurate method of prediction in the orthodontic patient sample.