Differences in dentofacial characteristics between southern versus northern Chinese adolescents

Abstract

Abstract Aim: To compare the dentofacial characteristics of southern and northern Chinese adolescents. Methods: A southern Chinese sample comprised 70 males (Mean age 12.4 ± 0.60 years) and 60 females (Mean age 12.5 ± 0.4 years), and a northern Chinese sample consisted of 50 males (Mean age 12.8 ± 1.8 years) and 50 females (Mean age 12.4 ± 1.2 years). All subjects had a Class I molar relationship with no or minimal crowding, a well balanced cephalometric profile, and no history of orthodontic treatment. Patient cephalograms were traced and digitized and McNamara’s analysis applied. Results: A smaller midface and a shorter overall mandibular length were observed in southern Chinese, whereas significantly increased vertical dimension and a retrusive chin were noted in northern Chinese. Protrusive upper and lower incisors and a protrusive upper lip were found in southern Chinese. Conclusions: There were significant differences in dentofacial morphology between southern and northern Chinese adolescents. It is suggested that separate cephalometric norms be used for patients originating from different parts of China.