Comparative study to correlate between two different radiographically determined condylar inclination with different facial forms in completely edentulous patients

Abstract

Context Many studies have determined condylar inclination (CI) by various clinical and radiography methods. But there was no previous study to find the correlation between facial forms and CI. So, this study made an effort to find any relation that exists between facial forms and CI in completely edentulous patients. Aim This study determined the relation of CI of completely edentulous patients in square, square tapering, tapering, and ovoid facial forms using two different radiographic methods. Materials and methods CI was recorded for 20 individuals, five for each group. For each individual CI was recorded by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and digital cephalogram with the occlusal rims in centric position. The CI was measured by the angle formed between the Frankfort horizontal plane and line joining the deepest point in the glenoid fossa (point A) and articular eminence (point B). Clinically, the facial forms were recorded by digital photographic records and were analyzed using the image analyzing software. Results The data obtained were statistically analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test and Mann–Whitney test with Bonferroni correction for multiple pairwise comparison and facial forms were analyzed with digital cephalogram and CBCT. It had shown significant values for group III and group IV. Conclusion The obtained values for all the four facial forms were clinically relevant and can be used to program the semiadjustable articulator. CBCT was the better imaging technique to record CI and can be employed.