Aim: To investigate the prevalence of crown shape in maxillary central
incisors of individuals with natural normal occlusion. Methods: The
sample consisted of 51 Caucasian individuals with natural normal
occlusion, no history of previous orthodontic treatment, and at least
four of Andrews′ six keys to normal occlusion. The images of the
maxillary incisors generated from model scans were evaluated by 12
orthodontists. The Kappa test was applied to verify inter-examiner
agreement with regard to classification of the central incisor shape.
Results: The results of the Kappa test showed significant agreement for
tooth shape. The following prevalences were observed: ovoid (47.06%),
square (31.37%) and triangular (21.57%). Conclusions: The choice and
use of one of these three shapes when selecting teeth for prosthetic
rehabilitation (total and partial dentures) can contribute
significantly to obtaining an improved facial harmony and balance.
Ovoid-shaped teeth should be "stocked" in greater quantities than other
tooth shapes