Nivelamento dos incisivos superiores e formato do arco maxilar: Uma análise associativa

Abstract

Introduction: One of the objectives of orthodontic treatment is to achieve proper leveling of the dental elements, especially the upper incisors, both for function and aesthetics. Objective: To evaluate whether there is an association between the shape of the maxillary arch and the arrangement of incisor leveling. Methodology: This was a quantitative-exploratory study through an associative analysis between the leveling of the upper incisors and the shape of the maxillary arch, with a sample of 95 patients. Regarding the leveling of the upper incisors, two categories were adopted: lateral incisors intruded relative to the central incisors and incisors at the same level. In relation to arch shape, three categories were applied: parabolic arch, V-shaped, and rectangular. Photographs and scanned arches were analyzed. After data collection, the data were compiled into a table and an associative analysis was performed using the q-square test. Result: Of the maxillary arch shapes analyzed, 45.26% were parabolic, 27.36% were V-shaped, and 27.38% were quadrangular. This finding does not correspond with the global literature, where, on average, parabolic, V-shaped, and quadrangular arches are observed in 49%, 42.6%, and 8.4% of cases, respectively. There was an association between teeth presenting a step with the parabolic arch (81.4%), as well as between V-shaped and rectangular arches with leveled teeth (84.6% and 76.9%) with p<0.001. Conclusion: It is concluded that there is an association between leveled anterior upper teeth and V-shaped and quadrangular arch forms, and there is an association between the parabolic arch form and the slightly intruded lateral incisors relative to the central upper incisors.