IMPLICATIONS OF MAXILLARY ANTERIOR TEETH ALIGNMENT IN ATHLETES: A CBCT-BASED STUDY OF SAGITTAL ROOT POSITION AND ITS IMPACT ON SPORTS PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Purpose: Utilizing cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology, this study classifies the position of maxillary anterior teeth in Chinese individuals from the perspective of their potential impact on athletic performance. The classification was based on the position of the root relative to the alveolar bone wall and the angle between the root's long axis and the alveolar process's long axis. This study also measured the thickness of the alveolar bone wall on the labial and palatal sides in different classifications, which is critical for assessing the structural integrity that can influence breathing efficiency and facial protection in athletes. Method: A total of 170 patients undergoing CBCT scans were included in the study, consisting of 77 males and 93 females, aged between 18 and 76 years. The root positions were divided into nine categories based on their anatomical configuration in relation to the alveolar ridge and analyzed for variations in bone wall thickness at key sites and angular relationships significant for dental stability and alignment. Results: The most prevalent classifications among central incisors were B2 (75.00%) and B3 (19.41%), indicating a commonality in root alignment that could influence oral health factors relevant to sports. Similarly, the lateral incisors and canines showed predominant classifications that suggest a typical alignment pattern. Significant differences (P<0.05) were noted in the labiopalatine bone wall thickness and the angular orientation of the alveolar process and the root axis, with males generally displaying thicker bone walls and more pronounced angles than females. These differences are crucial for understanding gender-specific vulnerabilities in contact sports and endurance activities. Conclusion: The study provides a detailed classification of the sagittal plane root positions of maxillary anterior teeth and their anatomical characteristics, highlighting the variations that could potentially affect athletic performance through impacts on respiratory efficiency and facial structure integrity. The findings emphasize the need for sports medicine to consider dental assessments in athlete training and healthcare protocols, particularly in sports where oral-facial impacts are frequent.