VALIDITY OF PONT’S ANALYSIS IN A GROUP OF YEMENI POPULATION

Background and aims: Ever since the emergence of new orthodontics, numerous indices have been developed to predict normal maxillary arch widths. Accurate prediction is essential for resolving dental crowding, ensuring stable occlusion, and minimizing the likelihood of relapse. The aim of this study was to assess the validity of Pont’s Analysis in a group drawn from the Yemeni population residing in Sana’a. Methods: This cross-sectional study examined dental casts obtained from 100 Yemeni participants (62 males and 38 females) aged 18–25 years with normal occlusion. Measurements were conducted with a high-precision sliding caliper (accuracy: 0.01 mm). In addition to the mesiodistal lengths of the four upper incisors, arch widths were measured at the first premolar region (between distal pits) and the first molar region (between mesial pits). The statistical package for social science software was used to conduct the statistical analysis. Results: The analysis revealed a statistically significant disparity between the measured and calculated arch widths. Pont’s Index consistently overestimated arch widths in both males and females (p<0.000). Paired sample t-tests highlighted a mean difference of -2.19 mm for premolar widths (t=-5.302, r=0.023) and -2.03 mm for molar widths (t=-4.165, r=0.093). Conclusions: The study concludes that Pont’s Index is unsuitable for the Yemeni population in Sana’a due to its tendency to overestimate maxillary arch widths. These findings underscore the need for population-specific adjustments to Pont’s Index to enhance its predictive accuracy.                              Peer Review History: Received 17 December 2024;   Reviewed 9 January 2025; Accepted 18 February; Available online 15 March 2025 Academic Editor: Dr. Ahmad Najib, Universitas Muslim Indonesia,  Indonesia, ahmad.najib@umi.ac.id