Variation in Morphology of Soft Palate Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography in Sakaka Population

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the variation in morphology of soft palate in age groups and gender using CBCT in Sakaka population. Study design: The study sample consisted of 240 CBCT scans aged between 15 and 45 years. The velar morphology on CBCT was examined and grouped into six types. The results obtained were subjected to statistical analysis to find out the association between variants of the soft palate with gender and different age groups. Results: The most frequent type of soft palate was Rat tail shaped. (46.25%) followed by Leaf shape, 18.75% Butt shape, 13.33% and Handle shape, 10%. S-shape7.5% and Crook shape, was 4.1%. There was no significant difference between Males and Females. Conclusions: The knowledge of a varied spectrum of velar morphology and the variants of the soft palate assist in the better understanding of the velopharyngeal closure and craniofacial anomalies.