Problem statement: Sella turcica (ST) is a structure that is clearly visible in lateral cephalometric radiography (LCR) and easily traced in cephalometric analyses. Impacted canine can lead to many beauty related and functional problems for an individual. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the shape and size of ST in LCR in patients      with impacted canine and comparing it with those that have maxillary erupted canine.

Materials and methods: In this retrospective analytical study, the sample was 160 (80 patients with impacted canine and 80 normal subjects) direct-digital LCR. For each sample, ST shape and size were examined and compared with the control group. The statistical tests used were chi-square and t-test for both the groups.

Results: The most prevalent shapes observed among those with impacted canine were normal (32.5%) and ST bridge (32.5%). The results indicated no significant differences in gender, length, diameter, and shape between the two groups. ST depth was more in the impacted canine group, which was statistically significant (p = 0.035).

Conclusion: ST bridge observed and its increased depth during growth are precursors of the possibility of dental anomalies like impacted canine in the future.

ST, impacted canine, lateral cephalometry.