Applicability of tooth size predictions in the mixed dentition space analysis in Nalgonda population

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of the Tanaka-Johnston and Moyer's methods for predicting the size of permanent canines and premolars in Nalgonda population. Materials and Methods: 200 sets of dental casts (13-16 years) of the permanent dentition with no detected abnormalities were obtained from children attending in and around the schools of Nalgonda. The actual mesiodistal crown diameters were measured with digital vernier calipers (Zoom, Japan) to accuracy of 0.01 mm. The actual values were then compared with the predicted values derived from the Tanaka and Johnston equations and Moyer's probability tables. Correlation and linear regression analyses were performed between the predicted and the actual tooth size and standard regression equations were developed. Results: In the present study, Tanaka and Johnston regression equation overestimated the mesiodistal widths of permanent canine and premolars (P < 0.001). At all probability levels in Moyers prediction table, there was no statistical difference between the actual and predicted mesiodistal widths of maxillary and mandibular canines and premolars. Conclusion: Tanaka and Johnston analysis overestimated the actual widths of the unerupted canines and premolars in the maxillary and mandibular arches of male and female subjects of Nalgonda population. New standardized regression equations were formulated for the prediction of the mesiodistal widths of unerupted canines and premolars. Moyer's prediction tables can be used at all probability levels for male and female subjects of Nalgonda.