Spanish abstract

Much focus of orthodontic diagnoses is placed on the sagittal and vertical dimensions. However, a proper evaluation of the transverse dimension must also have equal importance. Research has shown that interferences from an exaggerated Curve of Wilson due to a maxillary transverse deficiency play a role in centric relation (CR)/Central occlusion (CO) discrepancies, adverse periodontal stresses, and craniofacial development. This article illustrates three scientifically validated methods for evaluating the transverse dimension: Ricketts’ P-A cephalometric analysis, Andrews’ Element III analysis, and the University of Pennsylvania Cone-Beam CT Transverse analysis. The aim is to show methods using traditional cephalometry, study models, and cone-beam computed tomography, not to compare one method to another. The reader must then choose to use the method that is most appropriate for his practice.