Comparative Assessment of Facial Asymmetry in Malocclusion using Posteroanterior View

Abstract

The study was conducted to assess facial asymmetry in various dental malocclusions and to determine asymmetry in lower, mid, and upper face and jaws using posteroanterior cephalometric analysis. Overall, 120 posteroanterior cepha-lograms were taken of individuals between 12 and 25 years of both sexes, and were divided into four groups: Angle's class I excellent occlusion, Angle's class I malocclusion, Angle's class II malocclusion, and Angle's class III malocclusion. These cepha-lograms were traced and Grummon's analysis was performed. In Angle's class I occlusion and Angle's class II malocclusion, the results obtained showed asymmetry present in the upper face. Correlation was found between occlusion, maloc-clusion, and facial asymmetry. Facial asymmetry was found in all dental occlusions whether excellent or malocclusion group, with maximum asymmetry having upward trend toward upper face starting from lower. For the success of the orthodontic treatments in various types of malocclusion and to determine the facial asymmetry, posteroanterior view can be very helpful, as it gives additional information which can be utilized to augment treatment planning and improve prognosis in terms of relapse prevention.