Application of a new method for determining facial growth pattern in patients with distal occlusion

Abstract

Objective — to develop and clinically validate a new method for assessing facial growth patterns in patients with distal occlusion based on comprehensive analysis of angular parameters from lateral cephalometric radiographs using point Po as a stable reference.
Materials and methods.
The study included 40 patients (aged 18—40 years) with distal occlusion. The method evaluates six angular parameters (∠N—Po—Pg, ∠Po—N—Pg, ∠Po—Go—Pg, ∠Po—N—A, ∠Po—N—B, and ∠M) and their cumulative angle.
Results.
Significant differences in the total angle were found depending on the type of facial skeleton growth. In patients with distal occlusion, horizontal growth pattern angle was 433.9±6.2°, significantly lower than controls (p<0.001). The neutral growth pattern mean angle was 440.1±6.2°, showing no statistically significant difference from normative values (p>0.05). The vertical growth pattern mean angle was 446.3±6.2°, exceeding normative values by 1,7% (p<0.01). All measurements were taken with average mesiodistal dimensions of upper incisors of 30.3±0.3 mm.
Conclusions.
The obtained data demonstrate a clear relationship between facial growth pattern type and severity of distal occlusion.