English

Abstract

BACKGROUND Palatine rugae are small transverse structures present in the anterior 2 / 3rd of the palate. These rugae are protected by various structures of the oral cavity. They are immovable structures but variations in the oral cavity may lead to alterations in these small structures. There have been many studies that have quoted changes in these rugae patterns with various tooth movements whereas various other studies demonstrate no significant changes. None of the studies in specific have mentioned about palatal rugae changes with myofunctional appliances. The objective of this research was to evaluate the palatal rugae morphology and its stability after myofunctional therapy, as expansion and movement of teeth might lead to changes in these rugae. METHODS A total of 90 maxillary casts, 30 of Class I, 30 of Class II pre-treatment and casts of same subjects after myofunctional therapy, patients age ranging between 10 and 13 years were selected for the study. Length, intermedial and interlateral distances, angle of divergence and position of rugae were studied based on Lysell Classification 1955 and Thomas and Kotze Classification 1983. RESULTS Secondary and fragmentary rugae were found to be statistically significant as they were increased in Class II samples compared to Class I. The rugae in Class II samples were found to be shorter and therefore significant results were seen. IM1, IM2, IM4, IM5 and IM6 were found to be statistically significant respectively. Similarly, IL2, IL4, IL5 and IL6 were appreciable. IM1 was found to be appreciable. IL1, IL2, IL3 and IL4 were statistically significant. Significant difference was found in mean rugae value among Class I and Class II pre-treatment groups. Statistically significant difference was found in mean rugae value among Class I and Class II pre-treatment group. Incisive papilla to posterior border of last rugae (IP-PBA) was found to be statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Myofunctional therapy did have an effect on the rugae pattern. But the age group of 10 – 13 years consisted of growing individuals. Therefore, it could not be concluded as to whether the changes were because of growth taking place or because of myofunctional therapy. KEY WORDS Palatine Rugae, Myofunctional Appliances, Class II Malocclusion