Study on Characteristics of Maxillofacial Growth in Class III Malocclusion Patients by Cranial Base Growth

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Craniofacial structure form results from the adaptation to morphologic and functional changes in their neighboring structures for a mutual balance. The purpose of this study is classification of maxillomandibular complex growth pattern follow by cranial base growth pattern. And this study is identifying the correlation between maxilla-mandibular complex growth pattern and orthodontic criteria.METHODS: 142 Class III malocclusion patients had orthognathic surgery at Wonkwang University Dental Hospital during April 2004 to October 2010. Patients were divided into 4 groups and the correlation between cranial base and maxillomandibular growth patterns were evaluated.RESULTS: There was a correlation between cranial base and maxillomandibular growth patterns. Positive relationships were found between the occlusal plane, Incisor mandibular plane angle, mandibular plane, positioning of pogonion and the saddle angle, indicating maxillary growth patterns. Negative relationships were found between SNA, SNB, maxillary incisor angle and saddle angle. Positive relationships were found between the ratio of the anterior and posterior cranium, positioning of pogonion and the percentage of cranial depth indicating mandibular growth patterns. Negative relationships were found between the occlusal plane, maxillary incisor angle, mandibular plane, mandibular angle and cranial depth.CONCLUSION: Cranial base and maxillofacial growth patterns were correlated and the classification should be adjusted before orthognathic surgery.