Reference map of localization of contact points and contact areas of posterior teeth

The aim of the study: to find correlations in age-related characteristics of the localization and shape of the contact points in permanent posterior teeth and to develop a reference card for dentists, reflecting the age-related characteristics of the localization, shape and size of the contact areas of the posterior teeth in adults.

Materials and research methods. The linear dimensions, area, shape, vertical and horizontal position in the interdental space of 1224 contact points of the posterior teeth in 236 patients aged 20 to 59 years was assessed based on a comprehensive analysis of intraoral radiographs performed using the bitewing technique, the results of the study of contact points using floss, displaying contact points on dental impressions made using a special technique.

Research results. It was found that the interdental spaces of the posterior teeth in adult patients are characterized by the following features: the contact areas of the teeth are displaced in the vestibular direction, the buccal and lingual (palatal) interdental embrasures are asymmetric; dynamics of the depth of occlusal interdental embrasures, linear dimensions and area of contact areas is expressed as average digital values for different age groups: 20-40 years: contact areas – 1×2 mm, S = 2 mm2, depth of occlusal interdental embrasure - 1.5 mm ; over 40 years old: contact pads – 1.5×3 mm, S = 4.5 mm2, the depth of the occlusal interdental embrasure – 1.0 mm.

Conclusion. On the basis of the data obtained, a «Reference map of the localization of contact points and contact areas of posterior teeth in adult patients» was proposed, which allows a dentist to obtain data on the features of the topography of the contact areas of the posterior teeth, taking into account the patient’s age during planning and performing interproximal caries treatment.

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