Cephalometric Evaluation of Facial Height Ratios and Growth Patterns: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

(1) Background: This retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the cephalometric evaluation of facial height ratio (FHR) and growth patterns. (2) Methods: We assessed facial height ratios, the y-axis to SN angle, and growth patterns in 94 participants from Timis County using digital cephalograms. Angle’s classification guided the categorization of participants. We digitally traced and analyzed cephalograms using the WebCeph imaging software. We conducted the statistical analysis using Python version 3.11.9. We performed the following statistical tests: Welch’s t-test or ANOVA (analysis of variance), Mann–Whitney U test or the Kruskal–Wallis test, χ2 test or Fisher’s, and logistic regression. (3) Results: Significant correlations were observed between FHR and craniofacial development, especially in hypodivergent growth patterns. Among the molar classes, the most predominant growth pattern in Class I was normodivergent (61.5%), followed by hypodivergent (33.3%). In Class II, hypodivergent growth was the most common (52%), with a smaller proportion of normodivergent cases (30.8%). Class III was characterized by a mix of growth patterns, with hypodivergent being predominant (14.7%). Across all groups, the y-axis to SN angle remained within normal limits, and a strong negative correlation with Jarabak’s ratio was found (r = −0.72, p < 0.001). This shows the importance of using holistic assessment methods in orthodontic practice. (4) Patients from Timis County mostly have a hypodivergent growth pattern across all types of malocclusions. Understanding these patterns is essential for comprehensive orthodontic treatment planning. We need to conduct further research to investigate the implications of these findings on treatment outcomes and patient care.