Measurement of deciduous molar crowns and arches using digital imaging technology in pre-school children from Xiamen, China.

Background: Deciduous teeth are closely associated with the development of the permanent teeth, drawing concern and emphasis in dental restoration and endodontics. The deciduous teeth arches and crowns can serve as a clinical diagnostic reference that contributes to the manufacture of dental restoration and dental therapy.

Aim: This study measured dimensions of deciduous molar teeth in pre-school children using digital imaging technology.

Subjects and methods: From November to December 2023, a total of 121 digital models of pre-school (3-6 years old) children in Xiamen were obtained using a digital oral scanner. The data were derived from the 3-Shape software based on the measurements on the models.

Results: There were sex differences in crown width of most deciduous teeth, but not in antimeres. There were also statistical differences in the following measurements: a) mesial-distal diameter of mandibular second deciduous molar; b) occlusal-gingival distance of the right first deciduous molar; c) the upper left first deciduous molar in different sex controls; and d) girls were all smaller than boys. There were statistical differences in maxillary and mandibular arch width at 3, 4, 5 and 6 years of age and in the maxillary arch length at different ages, but not in the mandibular arch length. There was no statistical difference in maxillary arch length between boys and girls, but a statistical difference in arch width was detected between boys and girls.

Conclusion: Significant differences existed in deciduous molar crowns and arches between children of different ages and sexes.