Efficiency and Predictability of Coronal Maxillary Expansion Repercussion with the Aligners System: A Retrospective Study.

The Invisalign® system (SmartForce® G8) aims to guarantee aesthetics and provide good orthodontic treatment results. Dentoalveolar expansion is possible with clear aligners and can be used to correct dentoalveolar crossbite, resolve crowding or modify the arch shape. Despite the treatment's effectiveness, there is still disagreement among professionals concerning its true clinical potential. This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness and predictability of coronal tooth expansion movement in permanent dentition in patients who had completed the first phase of treatment with Invisalign® orthodontic aligners. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The tooth movement tables of 75 previously selected cases were analyzed in terms of dental-arch width and expansion efficiency, through the Invisalign® platform, considering the pre-treatment (T0), planned treatment (TP) and post-treatment models (T1) using ClinCheck Pro® 6.0 software. All patients were treated by an orthodontic specialist and Invisalign® Diamond Provider in a private practice (T.P.). RESULTS: Difference between T1 and T0: for each maxillary and mandibular measurement, there was a statistically significant difference between pre- and post-aligner treatment values. The greatest amount of expansion occurred in both the upper and the lower premolars. Difference between TP and T1: for each maxillary measurement, statistically significant differences were verified for the molar and canine. At the mandibular level, statistically significant differences were only verified in the first molar. CONCLUSIONS: The Invisalign® clear aligners are effective for simultaneous intra-arch expansion in both jaws.

Characteristics of Mandibular Arch Forms in Patients with Skeletal Mandibular Prognathism.

Arch forms in orthodontics are considered to affect occlusal stability. This study's subjects were 47 patients (Class III S group) who visited the Chiba Dental Center of Tokyo Dental College and were surgical orthodontic cases, and 60 patients with Class I malocclusion were selected as the control group. A mandibular model of each subject was plotted with each tooth on a digitizer. The clinical bracket points of each tooth were plotted, and intercanine and intermolar measurements were taken. The least squares method was used to fit a quartic equation, and the arch form was drawn. The Class IIIS group was divided by Wits appraisal and facial pattern into a dolichofacial or brachyfacial pattern, and arch forms were compared. The results show that the Class IIIS group had a significantly smaller intermolar width, canine depth, and molar depth and a significantly larger canine W/D ratio. In those with a dolichofacial pattern, the anterior curve of the arch form tended to be flat and the posterior curve narrower. This is because, in skeletal mandibular prognathism, the mandibular anterior shows lingual tipping, and the molars show palatal tipping due to dental compensation, and it was inferred that this tendency was higher in high-angle cases.

Cephalometric analysis in adults with tympanic membrane atelectasis.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to examine craniofacial morphology (CFM) with cephalometric radiographs in adults with tympanic membrane atelectasis (TMA). METHODS: A total of 50 patients (study group) were included and standardized lateral and anteroposterior cephalograms were performed. The control group consisted of 50 patients. Anteroposterior cephalograms were compared with the normative data. RESULTS: A significant increase in vertical and decrease in horizontal linear measurements were observed in lateral and anteroposterior cephalograms respectively. Except for the facial axis, the angular measurements were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Cephalometric data indicate a narrow and elongated but nearly proportional CFM for patients with TMA.

Posición del incisivo inferior en pacientes de clase esqueletal I y II según su biotipo facial en una muestra de una clínica privada, Cali 2014 - 2020 / Position of the lower incisor in patients of skeletal class I and II according to their facial biotype in a sample from a private clinic, Cali 2014 - 2020

Introducción: la sínfisis mentoniana es la articulación cartilaginosa medial de los huesos mandibulares, su posición se relaciona con los diferentes biotipos y puede influir en la posición del incisivo inferior. Objetivo: determinar si existen variaciones en la posición del incisivo inferior, en pacientes clase II con diferentes biotipos. Materiales y métodos: se evaluaron la totalidad de tomografías de pacientes clase I y II esquelética que asistieron entre 2014 y 2020 a una clínica privada, teniendo una muestra total de 74 pacientes, caracterizándolos por sexo y edad. Se determinó biotipo facial, Incisor Mandibular Plane Angle, distancias a la sínfisis como el ACV-ACL y altura desde el ápice. Para el análisis se utilizó I-CAT Visión Q, para las medidas de las tomografías digitales y para el análisis estadístico Stata 17. Resultados: se en- contró un Incisor Mandibular Plane Angle mayor en pacientes clase II en los tres biotipos; los dolicofaciales clase II mostraron menor valor en corticales ACV-ACL, los pacientes mostraron mayor proinclinación en la clase II. La posición del incisivo en pacientes clase II presenta una proinclinación significativa en braquifaciales (p = 0.04). Conclusión: se encontraron variaciones entre los tres biotipos faciales en las diversas mediciones en pacientes clase I y II, el sexo femenino evidenció diferencias significativas en las clases en las medidas del Incisor Mandibular Plane Angle y la altura de la sínfisis a nivel del ápice; estos hallazgos son relevantes en el momento de realizar un tratamiento ortodóntico ya que puede limitar el movimiento de los incisivos inferiores.

Introduction: the mental symphysis is the medial cartilaginous joint of the mandibular bones, its position is related with the different biotypes and can influence the position of the lower incisor. Objective: to determine if there are variations in the position of the lower incisor, in class II patients with different biotypes. Materials and methods: all the tomography of skeletal class I and II patients who attended a private clinic between 2014 and 2020 were evaluated, having a total sample of 74 participants, characterizing the patients by sex and age. Facial biotype, Incisor Mandibular Plane Angle, distances to the symphysis such as the ACV-ACL and height from the apex were determined. For the analysis, I-CAT Vision Q was used for the measurements of the digital tomography and for the statistical analysis Stata 17. Results: a greater Incisor Mandibular Plane Angle in class II patients in the three biotypes was evident; class II dolichofacials showed a lower value in both cortical ACV-ACL, with the narrowest and longest measurement of the symphysis, the patients showed proclination in class II for both sexes, being higher for the male. The position of the incisor within the symphysis in class II patients presents a significant proclination in brachyfacial patients (p=0.04), despite presenting greater proclination, it maintains its apices centered within the symphysis. Conclusion: variations were found between the three facial biotypes in class I and II patients, it is relevant when performing orthodontic treatment since it can limit the movement of the lower incisors.

Dimensional and positional temporomandibular joint osseous characteristics in normodivergent facial patterns with and without temporomandibular disorders.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the dimensional and positional osseous temporomandibular joint features in normodivergent facial patterns with and without temporomandibular disorders. METHODS: A total of 165 adult patients were divided into two groups: group 1 (n = 79 patients; 158 joints): temporomandibular disorders patients and group 2 (n = 86 patients; 172 joints): non-temporomandibular disorders patients. Three-dimensional positional and dimensional temporomandibular joint characteristics, including glenoid fossa, mandibular condyles, and joint spaces, were assessed by cone beam computed tomography. RESULTS: The glenoid fossa positions in the three orthogonal planes and height showed statistical significance between the two studied groups. The temporomandibular disorders patients showed higher horizontal and vertical condyle inclinations while anteroposterior inclination was less, and the condyle was positioned more superior, anterior, and lateral in the glenoid fossa. The condyle width and length showed no significance between the two groups, while condyle height was smaller in temporomandibular disorders patients. Anterior and medial joint spaces increased while the superior and posterior joint spaces reduced in temporomandibular disorders patients. CONCLUSION: There were significant differences between the patients with and without temporomandibular joint disorders in terms of mandibular fossa positions and height as well as condylar positions and inclinations in horizontal and vertical planes together with reduced condylar height and reduced posterior and superior joint spaces in the temporomandibular disorders patients. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The temporomandibular disorder is a multifactorial disorder in which one of these factors is the dimensional and positional characteristics of the temporomandibular joints; including or excluding this factor requires a comprehensive three-dimensional investigation of patients with TMD compared to the normal group under the condition that the facial pattern is average as a confounding factor.

Hyoid bone position in subjects with different facial growth patterns of different dental ages.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the correlation between hyoid bone (HB) positions and facial growth patterns (facial patterns) in Chinese adults; to identify any significant difference in HB position among subjects with different facial patterns in various dental ages. METHODS: Lateral cephalometric radiographs of 197 Chinese subjects were divided into nine groups based on their dental ages and facial patterns. Seven measurements were used to define HB position. Regression, correlation analyses, and one-way ANOVA were carried out. RESULTS: Significant correlations were found between facial patterns and anteroposterior HB positions. The HB was more anterior in the horizontal group after mixed dentition and further away from the mandibular plane in the vertical group of adults. Vertical HB positions were insignificantly different in any stage. CONCLUSION: HB position and facial patterns were correlated. There were significantly different HB positions among people with different facial patterns in various dental ages.

True vertical changes in patients with skeletal class III malocclusion after nonsurgical orthodontic treatment-a retrospective study comparing different vertical facial patterns.

Background/purpose: Rotating mandible backward downward is one of the treatment options in non-surgical skeletal class III malocclusion. The purpose of this study was to compare the true vertical changes after camouflage orthodontic treatment of adult patients with skeletal class III malocclusion categorized by vertical facial type. Materials and methods: This retrospective study included 27 adult patients (age >18 years) with skeletal class III malocclusion (ANB<1°) who underwent nonsurgical orthodontic treatment at Taipei Veterans General Hospital. The patients were divided into the low-angle (SN-MP<28°), high-angle (SN-MP>36°), and normal-angle (28°≤ SN-MP ≤ 36°) groups according to the original vertical facial pattern. Pretreatment (T1) and post-treatment (T2) lateral cephalograms were superimposed and treatment changes were evaluated. Results: In all cases, proper overjet and occlusion were achieved after treatment, and the lower anterior facial height increased with the backward rotation of the mandibular plane. Increase in vertical dimension was the most obvious in the high-angle group, while it was the least obvious in the low-angle group. Extrusion of both the maxillary and mandibular incisors was observed in the high-angle group; however, intrusion of the maxillary and mandibular incisors and decreased overbite were observed in the low-angle group. Conclusion: Camouflage orthodontic treatment of skeletal class III malocclusion improves the facial profile by increasing the vertical dimension and clockwise rotation of the mandible. According to our results, patients with a high mandibular plane angle showed better response to vertical dimension increment treatment mechanics than those with low and normal mandibular plane angles.

Estética y patrones craneofaciales en la Ortodoncia / Aesthetics and craniofacial patterns in Orthodontics

RESUMEN La belleza se puede definir como una combinación de cualidades que dan placer a los sentidos o a la mente. En Ortodoncia, la mayoría de los pacientes acuden a consulta para mejorar su estética. Las características faciales y esqueléticas determinan el desarrollo del patrón facial, este puede ser descrito y cuantificado y es resultado del crecimiento. Dicho aspecto, ofrece, además, las bases para el diagnóstico correcto de la anomalía dentomaxilofacial y es un requisito para lograr una estética y una función adecuadas. Se realizó un estudio de los diferentes conceptos de estética y los análisis craneofaciales tomados en cuenta a lo largo de la historia de la Ortodoncia para definir tratamientos y diagnósticos en los pacientes. Si bien existen numerosos estudios que avalan la importancia de estos datos para llegar a la armonía facial, es evidente la ausencia de un acercamiento a la realidad cubana y su diversidad de razas.

ABSTRACT Beauty can be defined as a combination of qualities that give pleasure to the senses or to the mind. In Orthodontics, most patients come for consultation to improve their aesthetics. Facial and skeletal characteristics determine facial pattern development, which can be described and quantified and is the result of growth. It also provides the basis for the correct diagnosis of dentomaxillofacial anomalies and is a prerequisite for adequate function and aesthetics. A study of the different aesthetics concepts and the craniofacial analysis, throughout the history of Orthodontics, was made to define treatments and diagnoses in patients. Although there are numerous studies that endorse the importance of these data to achieve facial harmony, it is evident that there is no an approach to the Cuban reality and its racial diversity.

Clinical application of an automatic facial recognition system based on deep learning for diagnosis of Turner syndrome.

PURPOSE: Automated facial recognition technology based on deep learning has achieved high accuracy in diagnosing various endocrine diseases and genetic syndromes. This study attempts to establish a facial diagnostic system for Turner syndrome (TS) based on deep convolutional neural networks. METHODS: Photographs of 207 TS patients and 1074 female controls were collected from July 2016 to April 2019. Finally, 170 patients diagnosed with TS and 1053 female controls were included. Deep convolutional neural networks were used to develop the facial diagnostic system. A prospective study, which included two TS patients and 35 controls, was conducted to test the efficacy in the real clinical setting. RESULTS: The average areas under the curve (AUCs) in three different scenarios were 0.9540 ± 0.0223, 0.9662 ± 0.0108 and 0.9557 ± 0.0119, separately. The average sensitivity and specificity of the prospective study were 96.7% and 97.0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The facial diagnostic system achieved high accuracy. Prospective study results demonstrated the application value of this system, which is promising in the screening of Turner syndrome.

Study on the transverse relationship of the mandible between different skeletal vertical patterns in patients with skeletal ClassⅠ malocclusion / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To analyze the correlation between skeletal vertical patterns and mandibular dental arch width, basal arch width and the dental buccolingual inclination of patients with skeletal ClassⅠ@*Methods@#The CBCT data of 62 skeletal ClassⅠ malocclusion patients were collected and divided into a high-angle group with 19 cases, a mean-angle group with 22 cases, and a low-angle group with 21 cases according to the GoGn-SN angle. Mandible 3D reconstruction of the three groups was performed using Dolphin software, and dental arch widths, basal arch widths and buccolingual inclination of canines, first premolars and first molars, were measured and statistically analyzed respectively. @*Redults@#Mandibular dental arch width showed no significant difference among the three groups (P>0.05). The basal arch widths of mandibular canines and first premolars in low-angle group were larger than those in the other groups (P<0.05). The buccolingual inclinations of mandibular canines and first premolars in high-angle group were larger than those in the other groups (P<0.05). The buccolingual inclination and basal arch width of the first molars among the three groups showed no significant differences (P>0.05). Pearson correlation tests showed that the basal arch widths of mandibular canines and first premolars were negatively correlated with GoGn-SN angle. Excluding the influence of dental arch width and basal arch width, there was still a significant positive correlation between the buccolingual inclination of mandibular canines and first premolars and the GoGn-SN angle (P<0.05).@*Conclusion@#The width of the basal bone arch between different skeletal vertical patterns mainly differs in the canine segment and the premolar segment, and the difference in the buccolingual inclination of the teeth is mainly to compensate for the difference in the GoGn-SN angle. In clinical practice, individualized therapy should be adopted according to the differences to achieve the long-term efficacy of correction.

Assessment of airway dimensions in skeletal Class I malocclusion patients with various vertical facial patterns: A cephalometric study in a sample of the Saudi population.

OBJECTIVE: To compare airway widths among skeletal Class I malocclusion patients with different vertical facial patterns. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 103 lateral cephalograms of skeletal Class I patients (mean age of 20 ± 2.3 years) with no history of orthodontic treatment, trauma, facial syndromes, or nasopharyngeal dysfunction were included. Based on the Frankfort-mandibular plane angle measurements, the sample was divided into three groups: low-angle, high-angle, and normal-angle groups. Upper and lower pharyngeal airway widths were measured as described by McNamara. The analysis of variance test was performed to compare the means of groups. Pairwise comparisons were performed using Tukey's post-hoc test. Differences were considered statistically significant at P < 0.05. RESULTS: ANOVA showed a significant mean difference between the groups for both the upper and lower airway widths with P values of 0.011 and 0.003, respectively. Tukey Pairwise comparisons showed the upper airway width to be significantly narrower in the high-angle group compared to the normal-angle (P = 0.021) and low-angle groups (P = 0.013). Furthermore, the lower airway width in the high angle group was significantly narrower than the normal angle (P = 0.020) and low-angle groups (P = 0.017). There were no statistically significant differences between normal and low angle groups. CONCLUSIONS: The upper and lower pharyngeal widths in the Class I high-angle group were significantly narrower than those in the normal-angle and low-angle groups.

Sex-, growth pattern-, and growth status-related variability in maxillary and mandibular buccal cortical thickness and density.

OBJECTIVE: The primary objective of this study was to quantitatively analyze the bone parameters (thickness and density) at four different interdental areas from the distal region of the canine to the mesial region of the second molar in the maxilla and the mandible. The secondary aim was to compare and contrast the bone parameters at these specific locations in terms of sex, growth status, and facial type. METHODS: This retrospective cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) study reviewed 290 CBCT images of patients seeking orthodontic treatment. Cortical bone thickness in millimeters (mm) and density in pixel intensity value were measured for the regions (1) between the canine and first premolar, (2) between the first and second premolars, (3) between the second premolar and first molar, and (4) between the first and second molars. At each location, the bone thickness and density were measured at distances of 2, 6, and 10 mm from the alveolar crest. RESULTS: The sex comparison (male vs. female) in cortical bone thickness showed no significant difference (p > 0.001). The bone density in growing subjects was significantly (p < 0.001) lower than that in non-growing subjects for most locations. There was no significant difference (p > 0.001) in bone parameters in relation to facial pattern in the maxilla and mandible for most sites. CONCLUSIONS: There was no significant sex-related difference in cortical bone thickness. The buccal cortical bone density was higher in females than in males. Bone parameters were similar for subjects with hyperdivergent, hypodivergent, and normodivergent facial patterns.

Prevalência do padrão facial em crianças com rinite alérgica persistente / Prevalence of facial pattern in children with persistent allergic rhinitis

Há evidências de que a morfologia facial é alterada pela obstrução nasal, especialmente, quando presente durante o crescimento e desenvolvimento infantil. O desequilíbrio funcional pode comprometer os resultados dos tratamentos ortodônticos e/ou ortopédicos funcionais O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a prevalência do Padrão de Crescimento Facial em indivíduos portadores de rinite alérgica persistente na idade entre 6 e 12 anos, por ser essa enfermidade a causa principal de obstrução nasal e respiração bucal de suplência. A amostra contou com 66 meninos e 34 meninas, avaliadas e diagnosticadas segundo os parâmetros de sinais e sintomas propostos por Meltzer, adaptados e validados para diagnóstico de rinite alérgica persistente e teste cutâneo de hipersensibilidade, encaminhados para realizar fotografias faciais e telerradiografia para determinar o Padrão facial e medida do espaço aéreo superior e inferior. Os resultados mostraram uma prevalência do Padrão II (46) seguido do Padrão I (35) Padrão III (7) Padrão Face Curta (6) e Padrão Face Longa (6). A rinite moderada/grave esteve presente na maioria dos indivíduos do Padrão II e em todos do Padrão Face Longa. A maioria dos indivíduos (66) apresentaram dimensões diminuídas da nasofaringe. As dimensões diminuídas da bucofaringe estiveram mais presentes nos indivíduos do Padrão II. Os indivíduos Padrão II foram os mais prevalentes. A maioria dos Indivíduos Padrão II apresentou rinite moderada/grave, as dimensões diminuídas da bucofaringe estiveram mais presentes nos Indivíduos Padrão II. As características faciais e a função respiratória não devem ser negligenciadas no diagnóstico e no plano de tratamento. (AU)

There is evidence that facial morphology is altered by nasal obstruction, especially when present during child growth and development. Functional imbalance can compromise the results of functional orthodontic and/or orthopedic treatments. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of Facial Growth Pattern in individuals with persistent allergic rhinitis between the ages of 6 to 12, as this disease is the main cause of nasal obstruction and supplemental mouth breathing. The sample consisted of 66 boys and 34 girls, evaluated and diagnosed according to the parameters of signs and symptoms proposed by Meltzer, adapted and validated for the diagnosis of persistent allergic rhinitis and skin hypersensitivity test, referred to perform facial photographs and teleradiography to determine the Facial Pattern and measure of the upper and lower airspace. The results showed a prevalence of Pattern II (46) followed by Pattern I (35), Pattern III (7), Short Face Pattern (6) and Long Face Pattern (6). Moderate/severe rhinitis was present in most individuals of Pattern II and in all of the Long Face Pattern. Most individuals (66) had decreased dimensions of the nasopharynx. The decreased dimensions of the bucopharynx were more present in individuals of Pattern II. Pattern II individuals were the most prevalent. Most of the Pattern II individuals presented moderate/severe rhinitis; the reduced dimensions of the bucopharynx were more present in the Pattern II individuals. Facial features and respiratory function should not be overlooked in the diagnosis and treatment plan. (AU)

Analysis of the relationship between the morphology of the palate and facial skeletal patterns in Class III malocclusion using structural equation modelling.

INTRODUCTION: The present study investigated the relationship between facial skeletal patterns and morphology of the palate in adult patients with Class III malocclusion using structural equation modelling (SEM). SETTING AND SAMPLE POPULATION: One hundred cone beam computed tomography images of Class III adults were evaluated for skeletal measurements. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The skeletal measurements were classified into the vertical, anteroposterior and transverse group based on factor analysis. 3D scanning model of the maxilla was analysed by Generalized procrustes analysis (GPA) and principal component analysis (PCA). Structural equation modelling was used to analyse relationship among the skeletal and morphometric factors. RESULTS: According to the factor analysis, latent variables were extracted by each skeletal variable. First principal component (PC1) and PC2 of palatal morphology were used to analyse relationship with skeletal variables. As results of the structural equation model, the transverse latent variable had the most influence on PC1, followed by vertical and anteroposterior variables. This result means that as the facial width increases, the palate becomes narrower, deeper and longer. CONCLUSIONS: The relationship between the skeletal pattern with Class III malocclusion and palatal morphology was analysed through SEM. The transverse facial skeletal pattern showed the highest correlation with PC1 of palatal morphology.

Short-term dentoskeletal changes following Class II treatment using a fixed functional appliance: the Austro Repositioner : A pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: Purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the skeletal and dentoalveolar effects of a fixed functional appliance, the Austro Repositioner, in dolicho- and brachyfacial skeletal Class II patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In all, 20 dolicho- and 25 brachyfacial consecutive patients treated with the Austro Repositioner were compared with untreated controls (20 dolicho- and 20 brachyfacial patients) with the same initial dentoskeletal features. Lateral cephalograms were acquired before and 1.0±0.2 year after therapy. RESULTS: Significant improvements in skeletal Class II relationships were observed in both groups. The ANB angle decreased (3.56° in dolicho- and 3.13° in brachyfacial patients, P < 0.001) due to changes localized exclusively in the mandible, the SNB angle increased to 3.20° in dolicho- and 3.02° in brachyfacial patients, and the total mandibular length (Co-Pg) increased to 6.47 mm in dolicho- and 5.78 mm in brachyfacial patients (P < 0.001). A favorable guidance of vertical pattern was also achieved in both groups, and no significant changes were observed in the upper and lower incisors in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The Austro Repositioner was effective for short-term treatment of skeletal Class II malocclusion resulting from the retrusion of the mandible in both dolicho- and brachyfacial patients.

Association between skeletal morphology and agenesis of all four third molars in Japanese orthodontic patients.

The purpose of this study was to clarify differences in skeletal morphologies between male and female orthodontic patients with and without agenesis of all four third molars. A total of 64 patients (32 males and 32 females) with agenesis of all four third molars without agenesis of other teeth were selected as the third molars agenesis group (group 1). In addition, 64 patients (32 males and 32 females) with all these teeth were selected as controls (group 2). Lateral cephalograms taken between the ages of 14 and 30 years were used to compare skeletal morphology between groups 1 and 2 and between sexes. Maxillary length (P < 0.001), lower facial height (P < 0.05), gonial angle (P < 0.001) and mandibular plane angle (P < 0.001) were significantly smaller in group 1 than in group 2. Irrespective of the presence or absence of all four third molars, males had significantly smaller lower facial height (P < 0.01) and mandibular plane angle (P < 0.001) and significantly greater total mandibular length (P < 0.001), mandibular body length (P < 0.001) and mandibular ramus height (P < 0.001) than females. Japanese orthodontic patients with agenesis of all four third molars had significantly small maxillary length, lower facial height, gonial angle and mandibular plane angle.

Factors associated with long-term vertical skeletal changes induced by facemask therapy in patients with Class III malocclusion.

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the long-term vertical skeletal changes induced by facemask therapy in patients with Class III malocclusion and different vertical skeletal patterns. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 54 patients (20 boys and 34 girls; mean age, 7.7 ± 2.0 years) with Class III malocclusion who were successfully treated with facemask therapy were included in this study. Vertical skeletal changes (overbite depth indicator, angle between the Sella-Nasion (SN) plane and Gonion-Gnathion (GoGn) line, angle between the Frankfort horizontal (FH) plane and mandibular plane, gonial angle, and angle between the SN plane and palatal plane) were measured on lateral cephalograms from before treatment (T0) to after facemask therapy (T1) and from T0 to after retention (T2). Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to study the associations of the patients' skeletal patterns with the short-term (T0-T1) and long-term (T0-T2) vertical skeletal changes as a result of facemask therapy. RESULTS: The mean treatment period of facemask therapy (T0-T1) was 1.4 ± 0.6 years, and the mean retention period (T1-T2) was 6.9 ± 2.6 years. Age at T0 was significantly correlated with vertical skeletal changes from T0 to T1. Differences in the treatment results between sexes were not significant. The angle between point A-point B line and mandibular plane to mandibular plane angle at T0 and the angle between the FH plane and mandibular plane at T0 were significant predictors for short-term and long-term changes. Changes in the Sella-Nasion-point A from T0 to T1 and from T1 to T2 significantly affected vertical changes in the short term and long term, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Vertical skeletal changes as a result of facemask therapy are significantly associated with severity of the skeletal Class III malocclusion and mandibular plane angulation before treatment and the amount of forward maxillary growth during the treatment and retention periods.

Relationships of vertical facial pattern, natural head position and craniocervical posture in young Chinese children.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate relationships of vertical facial patterns, natural head position (NHP), and craniocervical posture in young Chinese children with skeletal Class I relationship. METHODS: Ninety-four patients with skeletal Class I relationship were classified into low, average, and high angle groups according to their mandibular plane angle (NSL/ML). Cephalometric radiographs in NHP were taken. Variables representing vertical and sagittal craniofacial morphology, head posture, and craniocervical posture were measured and compared. RESULTS: Inclinations of the mandible to the true vertical and cervical column were smallest in the high angle group and largest in the low angle group. Other variables representing head posture and craniocervical posture were largest in the high angle group, smallest in the low angle group. Inclinations of ramus to cervical column were largest in the high angle group and smallest in the low angle group. DISCUSSION: Subjects with large NSL/ML angles showed extended head and craniocervical posture, while subjects with small NSL/ML angles exhibited flexed head and craniocervical posture.

Comparison of airway dimensions in skeletal Class I malocclusion subjects with different vertical facial patterns

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to compare upper airway widths among skeletal Class I malocclusion subjects with different vertical facial patterns. Methods: The sample included a total of 99 lateral cephalograms of post pubertal individuals (18.19 ± 1.76 years old). The vertical facial pattern was determined by the Vert index. The McNamara method was used to quantify upper airway widths. ANOVA test and Student's t test for independent groups were used, when normal distribution was not supported Kruskal-Wallis test and U-Mann-Whitney test were used. A multiple linear regression analysis was also performed. Results: Statistically significant differences in several nasopharyngeal widths were found among the distinct vertical facial patterns. Subjects with brachyfacial pattern presented larger nasopharyngeal widths than subjects with mesofacial (p= 0.030) or dolichofacial (p= 0.034) patterns. The larger the Vert value, the larger the nasopharyngeal widths (R2= 26.2%, p< 0.001). At the level of oropharynx no statistically significant differences were found. Conclusion: It was concluded that nasopharyngeal linear anteroposterior widths in Class I malocclusion brachyfacial are larger than in mesofacial and dolichofacial individuals. The Vert index only explained 25% of the total variability. No correlation was found for the oropharyngeal widths.

RESUMO Objetivo: o objetivo desse estudo foi comparar as dimensões das vias aéreas superiores em indivíduos portadores de má oclusão de Classe I esquelética com diferentes padrões faciais verticais. Métodos: a amostra consistiu de 99 cefalogramas laterais de indivíduos na pós-puberdade (18,19 ± 1,76 anos). O padrão facial vertical foi determinado por meio do índice VERT. O método de McNamara foi utilizado para quantificar as dimensões das vias aéreas superiores. O teste ANOVA e o teste t de Student para grupos independentes foram utilizados e, quando a distribuição normal não era possível, o teste de Kruskal-Wallis e o teste U de Mann-Whitney foram aplicados. Foi também realizada uma análise de regressão linear múltipla. Resultados: diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas dimensões da nasofaringe foram encontradas entre os diferentes padrões faciais verticais. Os indivíduos com padrão braquifacial apresentaram dimensões nasofaríngeas maiores do que os indivíduos com padrão mesofacial (p= 0,030) ou dolicofacial (p= 0,034). Quanto maior o valor do VERT, maior a dimensão nasofaríngea (R2 = 26,2%, p< 0,001). Não foram encontradas, entretanto, diferenças estatisticamente significativas ao nível da orofaringe. Conclusão: pode-se concluir que as dimensões anteroposteriores lineares da nasofaringe nos indivíduos braquifaciais com má oclusão de Classe I são maiores do que nos indivíduos mesofaciais e dolicofaciais. O índice VERT foi capaz de explicar apenas 25% da variabilidade total. Não foi encontrada correlação para as dimensões da orofaringe.

Facial pattern analysis: critic review and collection of facial proportions in a brazilian sample using cone-beam computed tomography / Análise de tipos faciais: revisão crítica e coleta de proporções faciais em amostra de brasileiros utilizando tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico

The classification of facial vertical patterns is a common practice among dentists of different specialties. It influences treatment planning and expected outcomes, but is usually carried out qualitatively. The aim of this study is to better understand vertical facial proportions, combining a critic review of the literature with the collection of data from 100 Brazilian adult sample in search of 3D quantitative parameters with the use of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) measurements. In Pubmed database, the following quoted phrases were used: "Facial pattern" AND "Facial Index" AND "Facial height Index" AND "Facial height" AND "Dolichofacial" AND "Brachyfacial" AND "Longface syndrome" AND "Short-face syndrome" in a 25 years interval (1990-2015). Study selection was performed searching for crucial facial features, commonly used to determine the facial pattern of a patient. In CBCT exams, 100 patients had facial features measured and classified by the three most reliable methods. The literature on the field can be very confusing, as the methods, landmarks and averages differed considerably. Most of the facial features researched had different values when the literature was analyzed and compared to our data. This indicates that ethnic, age and gender variations play an important whole in facial pattern diagnostic and should be taken in account when using general cephalometric approaches on diagnosis. With a group sorting method, combining the ratios between the anterior Facial height and the width, the anterior vertical proportion and the gonial angle divergence, and with anatomical landmarks we successfully correlated the sample to the qualitative description, as shorter faced patients to larger bi-zygomatic distances and less divergent gonial angles and longer faced patients with narrower and more divergent faces.

A classificação de padrões faciais verticais é prática comum entre Cirurgiões Dentistas de diferentes especialidades. Esta influencia o planejamento de tratamento e resultados esperados, no entanto, essa tarefa é frequentemente realizada de forma qualitativa. O objetivo deste trabalho foi compreender melhor as proporções verticais da face, combinando uma análise crítica da literatura com a coleta de dados de 100 adultos brasileiros na procura por parâmetros quantitativos em 3D, usando tomografias computadorizada de feixe cônico (TCFC). Na base de dado pubmed, a seguinte frase foi utilizada: "Facial pattern" AND "Facial Index" AND "Facial height Index" AND "Facial height" AND "Dolichofacial" AND "Brachyfacial" AND "Long-face syndrome" AND "Short-face syndrome" em um intervalo de 25 anos (1990-2015). A seleção dos estudos foi realizada procurando características faciais cruciais e métodos comuns para a determinação do padrão facial do paciente. Em exames de TCFC de 100 pacientes adultos, foram medidas as dimensões faciais foram registradas e os três métodos mais confiáveis e encontrados na literatura foram testados. A literatura sobre o assunto pode ser muito confusa, ao ponto de que os métodos, pontos de referência e médias variaram consideravelmente. Muitas das características pesquisadas tinham valores diferentes quando analisada a literatura em comparação com os dados dessa pesquisa. Isso indica que variações de etnia, idade e gênero tem papel importante no diagnóstico do padrão facial e deve ser levada em consideração quando utilizados padrões cefalométricos para diagnóstico. Com a metodologia de agrupamento, utilizando o índice entre a altura facial anterior e a largura, a proporção anterior da face e a divergência do ângulo goníaco, assim como os pontos cefalométricos selecionados, nós correlacionamos com sucesso a amostra com as descrições qualitativas como: os pacientes de face curta e as distâncias bi-zigomáticas e ângulos faciais menos divergentes, assim como os pacientes de face longa com faces mais estreitas e menos divergentes.