Correlation between Mandibular 2nd Molar Calcification Stages and CVMI among Southern Punjab Population

Abstract

Aim: To find out whether a correlation exists among the CVMI and dental calcification stages.

Study design: Case-control study

Place and duration of study: Department of Orthodontics, Nishtar Institute of Dentistry, Multan from 1^st October 2020 to 30^th April 2021

Methodology: One hundred and fifty orthopantomograms and lateral cephalograms patients were incorporated. The dental maturity was evaluated using8 stages of Demirjian index from stage A to H. This index is graded by determining the calcification stages of the left mandibular second molar tooth on an orthopantomogram. The CVM stages based on the morphology of 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th cervical vertebral bones on a lateral cephalogram, discern the skeletal maturity. This included 6 stages from stage 1 to 6, based on the depth of concavity and shapes of the vertebrae.

Results: The results showed a significant correlation amongst the dental calcification stages and CVMI, having a Pearson’s correlation coefficient ‘r’ of 0.741. A gender dimorphism was observed with males showing more progressive dental calcification stages in the CVM stages 2 and 3 as compared to their female counterparts. The dental calcification stage ‘D’ correlates with CVM stage 1 which occurs approximately 2 years prior to adolescent growth spurt. CVM stage 3 i.e. peak of adolescent growth spurt conforms to dental calcification stage ‘F’ in females and stage ‘G’ in males. The dental calcification stage ‘H’ correlated with CVM stages 5 and 6 which indicate the cessation of growth.

Conclusion: The lower second molar tooth calcification stages are a valid measure of skeletal age and can be effectively utilized to estimate patient’s age in orthodontic practice.

Keywords: Cervical vertebral maturation, Dental calcification, Mandibular 2^nd molar, Skeletal maturity