Diagnóstico radiográfico de los caninos maxilares incluidos. Comparación entre dos y tres dimensiones

Abstract

Introduction: Impacted canines have a high incidence and pose several clinical complications, with early and exact diagnosis being of vital importance to minimise the risks and derived complications. The objective of this study is to analyse the effectiveness of the two dimensions in the volumetric diagnosis of impacted maxillary canines, using the lines proposed by Alqerban as a reference. Methods: We selected 27 patients with 36 maxillary canines who underwent an orthodontic study with orthopantomography and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) of the maxilla at the Madrid European University Dental Clinic. Three reference lines were drawn based on the distance from the cusp of the canine to the occlusal plane (L1), to the midline (L2) and to its ideal eruption site (L3), both in the orthopantomography and in the CBCT. As ideal reference values, we selected a control group of 36 erupted maxillary canines. Results: The results were compared in 2 and 3 dimensions using the Student’s t-test, after verifying their normal distribution using the Anderson-Darling test. Statistical significance (p > 0.05) was not obtained for any of the variables studied. Conclusions: The use of CBCT is vital to ensure a good diagnosis for the position of the canine and its relationship with adjacent structures, thus establishing an adequate treatment plan. However, orthopantomography provides enough information for initial planning.