Inter-relations between infraocclusion of primary mandibular molars, tipping of adjacent teeth, and alveolar bone height.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine inter-relations between infraocclusion of primary mandibular molars, tipping of adjacent teeth, and alveolar bone height of infraoccluded teeth. METHODS: A total of 402 periapical radiographs of infraoccluded primary mandibular molars were reviewed. Infraocclusion, alveolar bone height, and tipping of adjacent teeth were measured. RESULTS: Infraocclusion was most prevalent among primary mandibular first molars. The amount of infraocclusion was most profound among primary mandibular second molars (2.79±1.25). The shortest distal alveolar crest (reflected by the highest distance between the cementoenamel junction and bone crest) was observed among infraoccluded primary mandibular first molars (0.9±0.92). The permanent mandibular first molar and the primary mandibular first molar demonstrated the maximum tipping mesially and distally. CONCLUSIONS: Infraocclusion of primary mandibular molars, tipping of adjacent teeth, and alveolar bone height of the infraoccluded teeth are inter-related.