Inter-relations between infraocclusion of primary mandibular molars, tipping of adjacent teeth, and alveolar bone height.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine inter-relations between infraocclusion of primary mandibular molars, tipping of adjacent teeth, and alveolar bone height of infraoccluded teeth.

METHODS

A total of 402 periapical radiographs of infraoccluded primary mandibular molars were reviewed. Infraocclusion, alveolar bone height, and tipping of adjacent teeth were measured.

RESULTS

Infraocclusion was most prevalent among primary mandibular first molars. The amount of infraocclusion was most profound among primary mandibular second molars (2.79±1.25). The shortest distal alveolar crest (reflected by the highest distance between the cementoenamel junction and bone crest) was observed among infraoccluded primary mandibular first molars (0.9±0.92). The permanent mandibular first molar and the primary mandibular first molar demonstrated the maximum tipping mesially and distally.

CONCLUSIONS

Infraocclusion of primary mandibular molars, tipping of adjacent teeth, and alveolar bone height of the infraoccluded teeth are inter-related.