Comparison of maxillary dentoalveolar dimensions in patients with vertical and horizontal growth pattern in maxillary canine impaction

Maxillary canine impaction, affecting 1–3% of the population, poses both functional and esthetic challenges in orthodontics. Skeletal growth patterns and dentoalveolar dimensions are critical factors influencing its occurrence. This study aimed to evaluate and compare maxillary dentoalveolar characteristics in patients with vertical and horizontal growth patterns using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was performed on CBCT scans of 30 patients, equally divided into vertical and horizontal growth types, classified using Steiner’s SN-GoGn angle. Measurements included inter-canine width (ICW), inter-molar width (IMW), arch length (AL), and arch perimeter (AP). Results revealed that patients with vertical growth patterns had significantly narrower transverse dimensions (ICW: 26.79 ± 3.89 mm; IMW: 48.61 ± 1.88 mm) compared to those with horizontal patterns (ICW: 31.34 ± 1.43 mm; IMW: 55.49 ± 2.59 mm; p < 0.001). Arch length was greater in the vertical group (26.44 ± 1.59 mm) than in the horizontal group (23.90 ± 1.31 mm), with no significant difference in arch perimeter. Basal measurements also showed notable variation (p ≤ 0.03). These findings suggest that vertical growth patterns are linked with constricted maxillary arches, increasing the risk of canine impaction. Early identification via CBCT and timely interceptive measures, such as dentoalveolar expansion, are advisable for effective management.