Soft Tissue Cephalometric Norms of Malabar Population in Northern Kerala: An Epidemiologic Study

Abstract

Aim: Malabar population is an amalgam of various religious communities sharing the same rich cultural heritage, tradition and language. Soft tissue cephalometric norms of Indians exhibit considerable variability and differ from inhabitants of one state to another in India. No soft tissue study has been conducted for the Malabar population of Northern Kerala. The aim of this study is to formulate soft tissue norms for the population of this area. Materials and methods: Subjects in the age group of 18 to 28 years were checked for their cephalometric parameters. These measurements were then compared with the normal values of the Caucasian population. Statistical comparisons were made using students 't' -test. p value <0.05 was set as statistically significant. Results: Malabar population has a protrusive profile when compared to the Caucasian population as indicated by an increase in the values of lower lip to H-line, skeletal convexity, upper and lower lip to the Ricketts-E plane and H angle. The lip protrusion that is present was found to be acceptable because of the prominent nose and chin. Conclusion: When planning treatment for the Malabar population, it is not always necessary to have an orthognathic profile in mind. A slightly protrusive profile may sometimes be more acceptable when compared to the Caucasian population. Clinical significance: Planning for facial esthetics is both a science and an art, which requires clinical capability, right judgment and skill to evaluate the esthetic needs of an individual. This study will serve to highlight the fact that beauty of the face encompasses all of its segments in harmony; however, interracial characteristics differ in harmonious relationships.