Artificial Teeth Selection Quiz

Artificial Teeth Selection

• Anterior Teeth Selection
  • Maxillary Anterior Teeth:
    • Width:
      • Width of the central incisor is related to the bizygomatic width.
      • Caliper or a face bow can be used to measure bizygomatic width.
      • The width of the six anterior teeth can be estimated by measuring the distance between the relaxed corners of the mouth.
      • Alternatively, measure the distance between the centers of the left and right hamular notches and add 10mm.
      • To calculate the width of the maxillary anterior teeth, add 7 mm to the interalar measurement.
      • The approximate location of the cuspid eminence can be determined by extending parallel lines from the lateral surfaces of the ala of the nose and the corners of the mouth onto the labial surface of the upper occlusion rim. The distance between these lines represents the width of the six maxillary anterior teeth.
    • Length:
      • The incisal edges should show below the upper lip by 2-3mm.
      • Length is affected by available space between the two arches.
      • During speech, the incisal edges of maxillary anterior teeth contact the lower lip at the junction of the moist and dry surfaces of the vermilion border.
      • To determine length, measure between the high lip line and the occlusal plane, adding 1 to 3 mm for accuracy.
  • Shape:
    • The shape of the edentulous upper arch (ovoid, tapered, or square) influences the shape of the upper incisor teeth.
    • Shape of the face is oriented with two lines running 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.
    • Labial surface of the teeth should harmonize with the facial profile.
      • A flat facial profile requires a tooth with a flat labial surface.
      • A curved facial profile requires a tooth with a curved labial surface.
    • Sex:
      • Curved facial features are associated with femininity.
      • Square features are associated with muscularity.
      • Ovoid or tapered teeth are appropriate for females.
      • Square teeth are appropriate for males.
  • Shade (Color):
    • Shade of previous dentures is often a patient's choice.
    • While teeth darken over time, there's no specific shade for a particular age group.
    • Shade can be based on skin complexion, with the least conspicuous shade being the best choice.
    • Utilize any pre-extraction shade determination.
    • Recently extracted teeth may be useful, but exercise caution.
    • Always listen to the patient's desires.
    • The selected shade should blend with the patient's skin tones and not stand out as too light or dark.
    • Observe the shade guide tooth in three locations: outside the mouth, under the upper lip with the incisal edge exposed, and under the upper lip with the mouth open and two-thirds to three-fourths of the tooth exposed.
  • Mandibular Anterior Teeth:
    • Select the six anterior teeth.
    • Each set of upper anterior teeth has a corresponding set of lower anterior teeth that match in size, shape, and shade.
• Posterior Teeth Selection:
  • The shade of posterior teeth should harmonize with the shade of the anterior teeth.
  • Buccolingual Dimension:
    • The posterior teeth should be smaller than natural dentition to reduce occluding forces on the alveolar ridge during function.
    • This reduction favors cheek and tongue support to keep the denture in place.
  • Anteroposterior Dimension:
    • Consider the length of the edentulous area between the distal of the mandibular canine and the ascending area of the mandible (anterior to the retromolar pad).
    • Placement of teeth on an ascending area could direct forces on an inclined plane, which may dislodge the denture.
  • Vertical Length:
    • The length of lower posterior teeth should coincide with the center of the retromolar pad.

Test your knowledge on selecting anterior artificial teeth, with a focus on maxillary anterior teeth. This quiz covers important measurements and guidelines essential for accurate prosthetic design. Perfect for dental students and dental professionals.