Anterior Teeth Selection Techniques

Anterior Teeth Selection

• Maxillary Anterior Teeth:
  • Size:
    • Width:
      • Bizygomatic width influences the width of the central incisor.
      • Calipers or face bows can be used to measure bizygomatic width.
      • Width of the six anterior teeth can be estimated using various methods.
      • One method involves marking the maxillary occlusion rim at the relaxed corners of the mouth, indicating the middle to distal edges of the canines.
      • Canines-to-canine width can be estimated by measuring the distance between the centers of the left and right hamular notches and adding 10mm.
      • Another method involves adding 7mm to the interalar measurement to determine the width of the six maxillary anterior teeth.
      • Cuspid eminence location can be determined by extending parallel lines from the lateral surfaces of the ala of the nose and corners of the mouth onto the upper occlusion rim.
      • The distance between the two marks represents the combined width of the six maxillary anterior teeth.
    • Length:
      • Incisal edges should show 2-3mm below the upper lip.
      • Length is influenced by the available space between the two arches.
      • During speech, the incisal edges of maxillary anterior teeth should contact the lower lip at the moist and dry surfaces of the vermilion border.
  • Shape:
    • Shape of the arch:
      • The shape of the edentulous upper arch (ovoid, tapered, or square) directly influences the shape of the upper incisor teeth.
    • Shape of the face:
      • Face shape is assessed by drawing two lines, 2.5cm in front of the tragus of the ear and touching the angle of the mandible.
      • Parallel lines indicate a square face.
      • Converging lines indicate a tapered face.
      • Diverging lines indicate an ovoid face.
      • Matching the labial surface of the teeth to the facial profile is important.
      • Flat facial profiles are suited for teeth with a flat labial surface.
      • Curved facial profiles are suited for teeth with a curved labial surface.
    • Sex:
      • Curved facial features are associated with femininity.
      • Square features are associated with muscularity.
      • Female patients may prefer ovoid or tapered teeth.
      • Male patients may prefer square teeth.
  • Shade (Color):
    • Factors to consider:
      • Previous denture shade is often the patient's preferred choice.
      • Age doesn't dictate a specific tooth shade.
      • Facial complexion can be a guide.
      • Utilize any pre-extraction shade determination made.
      • Recently extracted teeth might be helpful for shade reference, but caution is advised as they can lighten with drying or disinfectant solutions.
      • Listen to the patient's desires and preferences.
      • Ultimately, the shade should blend well with the patient's skin tones, neither too light nor too dark.
      • Present two to three shades to the patient and let them make the final decision.
• Mandibular Anterior Teeth:
  • Selection of the six anterior teeth.
  • Each set of upper anterior teeth has a corresponding set of lower anterior teeth, matching in size, shape, and shade.

Posterior Teeth Selection

• Shade:
  • Should be in harmony with the anterior teeth.
• Size:
  • Buccolingual dimension:
    • Posterior teeth should be smaller than those of natural dentition to reduce occlusal forces on the alveolar ridge during function.
    • Smaller size favors cheek and tongue support, keeping the denture in its place.
    • This reduction should not compromise cheek support.
  • Anteroposterior dimension:
    • The length of the edentulous area between the distal of the mandibular canine and the ascending area of the mandible.
    • Placing teeth on an ascending area can lead to forces on an inclined plane, potentially dislodging the denture.
  • Vertical length:
    • The length of lower posterior teeth should coincide with the center of the retromolar pad.

This quiz covers the selection methods for maxillary anterior teeth, focusing on size and width assessment. Participants will learn about various measuring techniques, including the use of calipers and face bows, to accurately determine the ideal width of anterior teeth. Enhance your knowledge of dental aesthetics and functionality through this engaging quiz.