Photographic Assessment of Cephalometric Measurements in Different Malocclusions in Raichur Population-An in Vivo Study

Abstract

The present study is to assess the coherence of facial photographs as a viable means for analysis of the soft tissues in orthodontic patients. Aim: To assess the repeatability and creditability of measurements obtained from lateral cephalograms and facial photographs. Methods and Material: The study was done on standardized lateral cephalograms and facial photographs obtained from a total of 120 patients. An observational collation of linear and angular measurements was formulated between lateral cephalometric radiographs and homologous measurements procured from facial photographs. With patient in ortho position and adhesive dots set on the anatomical landmarks, right profile photographs were captured in NHP. With protractor connecting the tip of the nose and the soft tissue pogonion, a plumb line recorded the NHP angle. Likewise, digital lateral skull radiographs were taken with a PLANMECA and it was analyzed if the same position achieved during photographic record had also been acquired on the radiographic record. Both digital photographic and radiographic records were uploaded into nemoceph 10.4.2 software program for windows and were scrutinized by a single examiner. A total of 19 parameters were analyzed. Results: All angular and linear parameter showed statistically insignificant differences. The parameters which showed the mean difference between cephalometric measurements and photogrammetric measurements which is greater than one degree in angular parameters and one mm in linear parameters. Conclusion: The phogrammetric analysis can be used as a screening or adjunctive aid in clinical diagnosis.