Palatal Dimensions Research Articles

Genetic and environmental impact on variation in the palatal dimensions in permanent dentition: a twin study.

The objective of this study was to assess the relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors to variation in palatal parameters in twins with completed maxillary growth. The subjects of this study comprised digital dental casts of 50 monozygotic and 35 dizygotic twin pairs. The subjects' average age was 17.95 ± 2.83years. Zygosity determination was carried out using 15 specific DNA markers and an amel fragment of the amelogenin gene. The interdental distances were measured between selected dental landmarks at the occlusal and gingival planes. The palatal height, surface area and volume were measured between the gingival plane and the midpalate suture. High heritability estimates were observed for all transverse intra-arch measurements. The palate height (a2 = 0.8), dental arch width in the molar area (a2 = 0.86), palatal surface area (a2 = 0.61) and palate volume (a2 = 0.69) were under strong additive genetic control. Moderate genetic dominance was observed for dental arch widths at the gingival line in the canine (d2 = 0.5) and premolar regions (d2 = 0.78-0.81). Sexual dimorphism was shown, with males exhibiting a greater arch width, palate surface area and volume than females (p < 0.01). The majority of palate parameters variation in twins was controlled by genetic effects, and most were highly heritable.

Evaluation of Morphological Variants of Soft Palate in Individuals with Different Skeletal Patterns Using Digital Lateral Cephalometric Images

Background and Objectives The soft palate has morphological variations in lateral cephalometric images. Several studies are available on the analysis of the dimensions of the soft palate, but few have investigated the morphology of the soft palate. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between morphological variations of the soft palate and types of malocclusion in Ahvaz, southwest of Iran. Subjects and Methods In this descriptive-analytical study, the lateral cephalometric images of 162 patients with abnormal skeletal pattern available in the archive of the Radiology Department of Jundishapur School of Dentistry in Ahvaz were used. The radiographs were divided into 6 groups (leaf shape, rat tail shape, butt like, straight line, distorted soft palate, and crook shape) under the supervision of a radiologist. The data were analyzed to determine the relationship between soft palate morphology and skeletal pattern . Results The results showed that 51.2% of the patients’ skeletal pattern were class two, 37% were class one, and 11.8% were class three . The most prevalent soft palate morphology observed in this study was the "rat tail" shape, accounting for 61.7% of all participants. This morphology was consistently the most common across all investigated skeletal classifications. The "leaf" shape followed in prevalence, representing 18.5% of the sample. The least frequent morphology, identified in only 2.5% of participants, was the "S-shaped" type. This pattern of prevalence held true within each individual skeletal pattern as well. Conclusion Rat tail shape of soft palate was by far the most common morphology while distorted soft palate or S-shaped soft palate was the rarest form of soft palate in patients. There is no relationship between the skeletal pattern of the jaw and the morphology of the soft palate in the studied population .

Non-brachycephalic dogs with stertor have higher nasopharyngeal collapsibility compared with dogs without stertor and foramen lacerum level is ideal for evaluating nasopharyngeal collapse on dynamic CT.

Stertor, a clinical sign associated with obstructive airway syndrome, is often observed in non-brachycephalic dogs. This prospective, case-control study aimed to compare soft palate dimensions, nasopharyngeal cross-sectional area (CSA), and nasopharyngeal collapsibility at various locations in non-brachycephalic dogs with and without stertor. A total of 50 dogs were recruited and stratified into control (n=34) and stertor (n=13) groups. Static and dynamic computed tomography was conducted without tracheal intubation, and the following variables were calculated: normalized soft palate length and thickness, normalized maximum and minimum nasopharyngeal CSAs (rCSAmax and rCSAmin), and nasopharyngeal collapsibility at the level of the cranial end of the soft palate, pterygoid hamulus, foramen lacerum, bony labyrinth, and caudal end of the soft palate. The stertor group demonstrated significantly lower rCSAmax and rCSAmin, as well as higher nasopharyngeal collapsibility compared with the control group, while no significant differences were noted in the soft palate dimension. Evaluating nasopharyngeal collapse at the foramen lacerum level was recommended due to the clear presence of identifiable bony landmarks and lower overlap in the nasopharyngeal collapsibility between dogs with and without stertor. Physical dimensions of the soft palate may not be the primary contributing factor to nasopharyngeal collapse and clinical signs in non-brachycephalic dogs.

Validating the Modified Small Double Opposing Z-Plasty for Palatal Lengthening in Primary Palatoplasty.

To appraise the degree of intraoperative palatal lengthening with the modified Furlow small double-opposing Z-plasty (sDOZ). Retrospective single-surgeon (R.D.) study. Nonsyndromic children (n = 167) with Veau types I to IV cleft palates who underwent primary sDOZ palatoplasty. Intraoperative measurements of palatal lengths and widths were collected using calipers, paper rulers, and metal rulers before the administration of local anesthetic solution and before the removal of the mouth gag (initial and final palatal dimensions, respectively). Assessment of the intraoperative percentage change (difference between final and initial values) in surface palatal length, straight palatal length, and soft palatal length. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify independent predictors (sex, age at surgery, Veau, Kernahan/ Stark, and Randall classifications, widest cleft width, presence of lateral relaxing incision, type of coverage with buccal fat flap, and postoperative complications) of soft palatal lengthening. Surface palatal, straight palatal, and soft palatal lengths had an intraoperative increase of 8%, 14.7%, and 27.7%, respectively. The degree of intraoperative soft palatal lengthening significantly varied among Veau cleft types (I = II < III = IV). Veau type III and cleft lip/palate were independent positive predictors (P < .001) of soft palatal lengthening, while other tested variables were not correlated (P > .05) with this outcome. Overall intraoperative palatal lengthening occurs with the modified sDOZ palatoplasty, with differences within the spectrum of cleft palate deformity.

Evaluation of Morphological Variants of Soft Palate in Individuals with Different Skeletal Patterns Using Digital Lateral Cephalometric Images

Background and Objectives The soft palate has morphological variations in lateral cephalometric images. Several studies are available on the analysis of the dimensions of the soft palate, but few have investigated the morphology of the soft palate. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between morphological variations of the soft palate and types of malocclusion in Ahvaz, southwest of Iran. Subjects and Methods In this descriptive-analytical study, the lateral cephalometric images of 162 patients with abnormal skeletal pattern available in the archive of the Radiology Department of Jundishapur School of Dentistry in Ahvaz were used. The radiographs were divided into 6 groups (leaf shape, rat tail shape, butt like, straight line, distorted soft palate, and crook shape) under the supervision of a radiologist. The data were analyzed to determine the relationship between soft palate morphology and skeletal pattern . Results The results showed that 51.2% of the patients’ skeletal pattern were class two, 37% were class one, and 11.8% were class three . The most prevalent soft palate morphology observed in this study was the "rat tail" shape, accounting for 61.7% of all participants. This morphology was consistently the most common across all investigated skeletal classifications. The "leaf" shape followed in prevalence, representing 18.5% of the sample. The least frequent morphology, identified in only 2.5% of participants, was the "S-shaped" type. This pattern of prevalence held true within each individual skeletal pattern as well. Conclusion Rat tail shape of soft palate was by far the most common morphology while distorted soft palate or S-shaped soft palate was the rarest form of soft palate in patients. There is no relationship between the skeletal pattern of the jaw and the morphology of the soft palate in the studied population .

Minor physical anomalies including palatal rugae pattern and palatal dimensions in children with sickle cell disease: A cross-sectional analytical study

BackgroundSickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common hereditary hemoglobinopathy, which delays growth leading to an altered skeleton and craniofacial pattern. Palatal rugae patterning has been considered the regulator of the development of the palate. The purpose of the research work was to study the morphology of the palate, rugae pattern, and its dimensions in SCD children and compare them with healthy normal children, and to evaluate its role as minor physical anomalies (MPAs). MethodsA cross-sectional case-control study was designed as per STROBE guidelines. The sample comprised 50 children diagnosed with sickle cell disease (Group SCD) and 50 normal healthy children as control (Group C) belonging to the same age group (10–18 years). Dental impressions were made, followed by the pouring of dental casts. The length of the palatal rugae was measured and categorized into primary (>5 mm), secondary (3 mm–5 mm), and fragmentary rugae (<3 mm). The shape of each primary palatal rugae was identified and categorized as curved, wavy, straight, circular and non-specific. Linear and angular measurements of the palatal rugae patterns and palatal dimensions (width, height, area) were measured and recorded. ResultsThe total number of palatal rugae and fragmentary rugae was lesser in Group SCD than in Group C (p < 0.05). The depth of the palate was significantly increased, whereas the area of the palate significantly decreased in Group SCD. ConclusionsThe children with SCD showed distinctive palatal rugae patterns and dimensions when compared with normal healthy children that can be attributed as potential MPAs for sickle cell disease. Children with SCD had an under-developed palatal rugae pattern with a deep, narrow and small palate when compared to healthy children.The dimensions of the palatal rugae pattern in SCD showed reduced distance between the incisive papilla and the first and last rugae, indicating a further decrease in the anteroposterior dimensions of the palate. These findings may aid in the early diagnosis and prevention of malocclusion in children with SCD by appropriate interceptive orthodontic treatment

The Association Between Transverse Maxillary Deficiency and Septal Deviation in Adults with Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Recent evidence suggests that environmental factors impact craniofacial development. Specifically, the height and width of the maxilla may impact the degree of septal deviation. We sought to determine the relationship between transverse maxillary deficiency and severity of septal deviation. A prospective cohort of adult sleep surgery patients were evaluated by standardized CT imaging. Primary outcomes evaluated the relationship of a narrow, high-arched palate (the palatal height to width ratio) with the degree of septal deviation at the level of the 1st premolar and 1st molar. Secondary outcome evaluated the relationship of the palatal height-to-width ratio and nasal obstruction. Both adjusted and unadjusted linear regression were performed, including correction for multiple hypothesis testing. Ninety-three patients were included. On average, the cohort was middle aged (54.7 ± 12.7 years), obese (BMI 30.1 ± 4.5 kg/m2), predominantly male (74.2%), White (73.1%), and with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) (AHI 30.0 ± 18.7 events/h). A moderate correlation was observed between both the relative and absolute inter-premolar palatal height and the degree of septal deviation at the inter-molar region. No significant correlation was observed between palatal dimensions and NOSE score. This study found that transverse maxillary deficiency is moderately associated with greater degree of septal deviation among a sample of OSA patients. This contributes to the concept that craniofacial development impacts the nasal airway, promoting a comprehensive evaluation of both endonasal and extranasal structures. 4 Laryngoscope, 134:2464-2470, 2024.

Three-Dimensional Measurements of the Palate and Dental Arch Perimeter as Predictors for Maxillary Palatal Canine Impaction-A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Image Analysis.

(1) Background: Accurate diagnosis and treatment plans in orthodontics were facilitated by novel technologies. The prediction of occlusal problems is of utmost importance for clinicians. This present study aimed to find any possible correlation between unilateral and bilateral palatally impacted maxillary canine, palatal dimensions, and maxillary arch perimeter using digital measurements and determine the factors that could be used as predictors for maxillary palatal canine impaction. (2) Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on cone-beam computed tomography images of orthodontic patients aged 15 to 25. Palatal dimensions and maxillary arch perimeter were digitally measured using Materialize Interactive Medical Image Control System. (3) Results: A significant difference was found between the case and the study groups regarding palatal depth, length, and arch perimeter, except for the palatal width. A weak correlation was reported in palatal depth and length with canine impaction, whereas the correlation was moderate concerning the arch perimeter. They can be used as predictors for palatal canine impaction. (4) Conclusion: Palatal dimensions and dental arch perimeter affect maxillary palatal canine impaction. Deficient arch perimeter, palatal depth, and length could be helpful in the prediction of maxillary palatal canine impaction.

Dimensional changes in the palate associated with Invisalign First System: a pilot study.

To compare palatal dimensions and molar inclinations after Invisalign First System (IFS) to those in patients treated with slow maxillary expansion (SME) and normal controls. Twenty-three mixed dentition patients treated with IFS were gender- and dental age-matched to another two groups: Haas-type SME and control group. The intercanine width (ICW), intermolar width (IMW), palatal surface area (SA), volume (V), and first molar buccolingual inclinations (MI) were measured before (T1) and after (T2) treatment. Analysis of variance was used to compare the differences among the three groups. The ICW increased significantly by 3.10 mm after IFS, 4.77 mm with SME, and 0.54 mm in controls; the difference among the groups was statistically significant (P < .001). The IMW increased by 1.95 mm in IFS, 4.76 mm in SME, and 0.54 mm in controls, with significant intra- and intergroup differences. Palatal SA and volume increased by 43.50 mm2 and 294.85 mm3 in the IFS group, which differed significantly from SME, but was similar to controls. The right and left MI increased 0.24° and 0.08° buccally, respectively, in the IFS group, which was comparable to controls, while significantly increased buccal MI was observed in the SME group. IFS expands the upper arch with increased ICW and IMW compared to controls, but the expansion amount is smaller than SME. Unlike SME, IFS has no effects on palatal dimensions and molar inclinations.

Palatal changes after treatment of functional posterior cross-bite using elastodontic appliances: a 3D imaging study using deviation analysis and surface-to-surface matching technique

BackgroundThe present study aimed to evaluate the changes in palate dimension and morphology after treatment of functional posterior crossbite (FPXB) with elastodontic devices (EAs).MethodsThe treatment group (TG) consisted of 25 subjects (mean age 7.3 ± 0.9 years) who received treatment with EA for one year. The control group (CG) comprised 14 untreated subjects (mean age 6.8 ± 0.7 years). Inclusion criteria: intra-oral scan registered before (T0) and after treatment (T1), FPXB with a mandibular shift towards the crossbite site of ≥ 2 mm, class I molar relationship. Exclusion criteria: missing teeth, anterior crossbite, temporomandibular disorders, previous orthodontic treatment, carious lesions, mobility of deciduous posterior teeth, craniofacial deformities. Digital models were analyzed to assess the inter-canine (ICW) and inter-molar widths (IMW) and the corresponding emi-lateral measurements (eICW and eIMW) using the median palatine plane as reference. According to a specific 3D imaging technology, the morphology and symmetry of the palate was investigated by analysing the 3D deviation between the two specular models of the palate.ResultsAt T0, both groups showed a significantly narrower dimension of eICW and eIMW at the crossbite side compared to the non-crossbite side (p < 0.05). Also, the 3D deviation analysis demonstrates a limited matching percentage of the original/mirrored models in both TG (81.12%) and CG (79.36%), confirming the asymmetry of the palate. The area of mis-matching was located at the alveolar bone level. At T1, subjects in the TG showed a significant increment of ICW and IMW (p < 0.05), a reduction of the differences of eICW and eIMW between both sides (p < 0.05) and an increment of the percentage matching (TG = 92.32%) (p < 0.05), suggesting a significant recovery of the palatal asymmetry. No significant changes were found between T0 and T1 in the CG (p > 0.05).ConclusionsEAs could be successfully used to correct FPXB in mixed dentition and could restore the harmonious development of the palate in children.

Comparison of Dimensions of the Palate Between Individuals With and Without Nasal Septum Deviation on Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Images in an Iranian Population

Background: Nasal septum deviation might disrupt the integrity of nasal septum components, resulting in deformity. Such changes might affect the morphology of adjacent structures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the dimensions of the palate in subjects with and without nasal septum deviation on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images in an Iranian population. Methods: In the present cross-sectional study, the CBCT images of subjects with and without nasal septum deviation were evaluated in two groups (n=107) referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Tabriz Faculty of Dentistry in 2017. The presence or absence of nasal septum deviation and its severity were evaluated in association with palatal dimensions. Data were analyzed by SPSS. Independent samples t test was used to compare the dimensions of the palate. Finally, the Mann-Whitney U test was employed to compare palatal arch depth (PAD)/palatal interalveolar length (PIL) ratios. Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the palatal depth (P=0.967), palatal width (P=0.223), and palatal depth/palatal width ratio (P=0.644). However, the results demonstrated significant differences in palatal depth (P&lt;0.001) and palatal width (P=0.05) between male and female subjects. Conclusions: Overall, no significant differences were observed in the dimensions of the palate (depth and width) and their ratios between subjects with and without nasal septum deviation, although greater palatal dimensions (depth and width) were detected in males compared to females.

A Study on Various Sizes and Volumes of the Palate among the Korean Population in Mixed Dentition

The purpose of this study was to compare the palatal dimensions (volume, width, length, and height) in different malocclusions (Class I, II, and III) in mixed dentition using a three-dimensional digital scanner. The study was performed on 30 selected casts from 1400 casts that were taken at the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at Dankook University. Casts consisted of Class I, II, and III malocclusion groups in Hellman’s dental age IIIA. The mean age was 8 years and 6 months ± 11 months. Each cast was scanned by three-dimensional digital scanner, Medit T710 (Medit, Seoul, Korea), and shaped into the three-dimensional image and calculated palatal dimensions using the Plan T program (SMD solution, Seoul, Korea). The values were statistically compared and evaluated by Kruskal-Wallis followed by the Mann-Whitney test. According to our results, subjects with Class II malocclusion showed lower palatal width and longer palatal length compared to those with Class I and Class III. For palatal height, Class III malocclusion subjects in mixed dentition exhibited a larger number than Class II and Class I. Lastly, for palatal volume, compared to other malocclusions, Class III showed higher results; however, there were no significant differences. The form of the palate differs in types of malocclusions and understanding of these differences is important in clinical significance. Based on this study, the understanding of the relationship between the shape of the palate and the skeletal pattern provides useful information about orthodontic treatment plans, early diagnosis of malocclusion, and morphological integration mechanisms. Orthopedic treatment in the maxilla should be performed during early and intermediate mixed dentition to enhance treatment efficiency.

Uniformity of palatal volume and surface area in various malocclusions.

To assess palatal volume, surface area and linear dimensions across sagittal and vertical components of malocclusion. Pre-treatment cephalographs and dental casts of 178 non-growing patients (88 males, 90 females, age 25.81 ± 8.23 years) were used for classification in sagittal malocclusion groups: Class I (n= 48), Class II division 1 (n= 42), Class II division 2 (n= 40) and Class III (n= 48); and in vertical divergence groups based on the MP/SN angle: hypodivergent (n= 35), normodivergent (n= 95) and hyperdivergent (n= 48). Dental casts were scanned and palatal measurements recorded: palatal width, depth and interdental distances; palatal surface area (PSA, mm2 ) and volume (PV, mm3 ). A 3-way ANOVA was used to compare palatal dimensions across groups. Pearson product-moment correlations were employed to assess associations among variables. PSA and PV (in both sex groups) were not statistically significantly different across sagittal malocclusions and vertical patterns. Significant differences were depicted more among the vertical divergence groups than sagittal groups. Correlations between PSA and PV and palatal dimensions were low to moderate. Predictability of PSA and PV ranged between 15 and 18%. The finding of similar palatal volume and surface area, on average, across malocclusions possibly underscores the limitations of environmental influences within the inherited orofacial phenotype. The vertical facial pattern seems to be more interactive with palatal dimensions than sagittal relations. Studies of palatal changes following orthodontic and orthognathic treatments are warranted.

Reference parameters for normality and associated factors to hard palate during mixed dentition phase.

To evaluate the association among dimensions of the hard palate according to the sexes, skin color, and periods of the mixed dentition and present reference parameters of normality for this stage of development. This cross-sectional study evaluated a representative sample of children between the ages of 7 and 13 years in Santa Maria, southern Brazil. The outcomes of the study were the dimensions of the palate: width measurements and depth. Sociodemographic characteristics and related oral measures were also assessed. Adjusted linear regression model were used to evaluate the effect of the predictor's variables on the dimensions of the hard palate in millimeters. The reference standards for the hard palate normality were presented in mean, standard deviation, and 95% confidence interval. A total of 569 children were evaluated. The hard palate dimensions were larger in the male sex and smaller in the first transitional period of mixed dentition. Skin color had an influence on the hard palate width at the level of the premolars, and the width measurements were smaller in white individuals. Posterior cross bite, Angle Class II and III malocclusions and non-nutritional sucking habits caused reduction in the hard palate width measurements. Different dimensions of the hard palate are influenced by demographic variables such as sex, skin color, and mixed dentition period. Children of the female sex, white-skinned and in the first transition period of mixed dentition had smaller dimensions of the hard palate. Establishing normality reference standards in measurements of the palates guides the clinical practice.

Three dimensional changes of maxillary arch in Unilateral cleft lip and palate patients following comprehensive orthodontic treatment on digital study models.

OBJECTIVE:To compare the effects of comprehensive orthodontic treatment on palatal area, volume, inter-canine and inter-molar width in patients with Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate (UCLP) using scanned models of the maxillary arch.DESIGN:Retrospective cohort study.SETTING:Tertiary setting.PATIENTS:Two hundred and ten plaster study models of 70 patients with Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate (Study group SG) and Control Group (n = 70) were scanned using Maestro 3D Dental scanner. The study groupwas further divided into subgroups; Subgroup I: treated with orthodontic treatment only (non-surgical), Subgroup II: patientsmanaged with combined orthodontics and orthognathic surgery (either maxillary advancement or maxillary distraction), Subgroup A: age >14 years and Subgroup B: age <14 years.INTERVENTIONS:Comprehensive orthodontic and Orthosurgical treatmentMAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:Pre- and post-treatment scanned maxillary models of the study group were compared for palatal area and volumeand intercanine and intermolar width. The palatal dimensions of post-treatment scanned models were also compared to that of the control group.RESULTS:The Palatal area and volume, intercanine and intermolar width were significantly higher in the post-treatment as compared to pre-treatment study models (P < 0.01). The measurements ofthe maxillary arch were significantly higher in the control group compared to the post-treatment measurements of the study group. The increase in palatal area and volume was greater in Subgroup I and A compared to Subgroup II and B patients, respectively.CONCLUSION:The 3-Dimensional palatal dimensions in UCLP group improved after orthodontic treatment but were still not comparable to the normal subjects. The patients with age >14 years showed more improvement in the maxillary arch.

Evaluation of palatal dimensions in different facial patterns by using digital dental casts.

To analyze the variations of hard palate volume in adults with normal occlusion and different facial types and patterns, by using a three-dimensional analysis on digital casts. The dental casts of 70 Caucasian adults (28 men, 42 women), mean age of 16.4 years (SD 1.3 years), were scanned by using a tridimensional scanner (Delcam PowerSHAPE™, 2010, Birmingham, UK). Close points were selected in the gingival and cervical regions on the lingual surface of the maxillary teeth, to analyze palatal morphology. The facial patterns and types, and the measurements (width, length, height, volume) of the space on the hard palate were compared using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), with age as the covariate, and sex as the independent variable. The significance level of 5% (p < 0.05) was adopted. This study showed that the measurements of the width and length were similar among the mesofacial, dolichofacial and brachyfacial facial types, although the height and volume of the space on the hard palate were slightly smaller in dolichofacial individuals, and both Pattern I and Pattern II individuals showed no significant changes for the four measurements. The mean values among facial patterns were: Pattern I - width 38.31±2.59 mm; length 37.44±2.42 mm; height 17.03±2.42 mm and volume 10.52±1.72 mm3; Pattern II - width 37.48±2.44 mm; length 37.48±2.44 mm; height 16.79±2.42 mm and volume 10.41±1.65 mm3 (p>0.05 for all variables). There were no significant differences for the facial patterns and facial types of the individuals compared in the analyzed sample.

Soft Palate Variation in Oral Submucous Fibrosis

One among the most prevalent precancerous disorders affecting oral cavity in those who consume arecanut and gutka is oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). The anatomy of the soft palate alters as this illness proceeds and can act as a marker for disease. OSMF prevalence varies by area and ethnicity, and is closely linked to behaviours, culture, and cuisine. People in South and Southeast Asia have the greatest frequency of OSMF.OSMF has afflicted 2.5 million individuals globally, with a total of five million in the Indian individuals. The percentage of OSMF patients with dysplasia might range from 12 to 15 percent. Malignant changes occurs at a rate of 4–13 percent around world, but 7.6 percent in the Indian subcontinent. The anatomy of the soft palate in OSMF patients has been studied in a number of ways. Cephalometric analysis is highly used methods for measuring the soft palate in both healthy and OSMF patient. On lateral cephalometry, the soft palate shows a variety of radiographic appearances. Early cephalometry diagnosis of OSMF plays a vital role in treatment of disease. Soft palate becomes thick and heavy as OSMF advances, and considerable changes in soft palate dimensions occur, which may be better assessed by CBCT. This review work compared studies from several researchers, and observed that Type 1soft palate is the most prevalent, while type 6 soft palate is the least common.

The effect of concha bullosa and nasal septal deviation on palatal dimensions: a cone beam computed tomography study

IntroductionNasal septal deviation (NSD) and concha bullosa (CB) are associated with airway obstruction in mouth breathers. Mouth breathing is associated with alterations in maxillary growth and palatal architecture. The aim of our study was to determine the effect of the presence of CB and NSD on the dimensions of the hard palate using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).Materials and methodsA retrospective study was conducted using CBCT scans of 200 study subjects. The study subjects were divided into four groups based on the presence of CB and NSD. Septal deviation angle (SDA), palatal interalveolar length (PIL), palatal depth (PD) and maxillopalatal arch angle (MPAA) were measured in the study groups.ResultsThe presence of NSD and CB was associated with significant (p < 0.001) differences in the palatal dimensions of the study subjects. The PIL and MPA (p < 0.001) were significantly reduced (p < 0.001), whereas the PD was significantly increased (p < 0.001) in study subjects with NSD and CB. There was no significant change in the palatal dimensions between the unilateral and bilateral types of CB. Among the palatal dimensions, the PIL had the most significant association (R2 = 0.53) with SDA and CB. There was a significant correlation between the palatal dimensions and SDA when CB was present along with NSD.ConclusionBased on the results of this study, it can be concluded that the presence of NSD and CB have a significant effect on the palatal dimensions and, therefore, they may be associated with skeletal malocclusion.

A retrospective study of the influence of obesity on polysomnography and cephalometric parameters in males with obstructive sleep apnea

ABSTRACT Objective Evaluate the influence of obesity on the polysomnographic and cephalometric parameters in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Methods Fifty records of male patients with OSA, containing information on dental, medical, polysomnographic, and cephalometric exams were selected. The degree of obesity was based on Body Mass Index (BMI). Group I comprised normal or overweight individuals (BMI ≤ 29.9 kg/m2), whereas Group II consisted of obese individuals (BMI ≥ 29.9 kg/m2). Results BMI significantly correlated with apnea and hypopnea index (p < 0.0005), minimal oxyhemoglobin saturation (p < 0.0005), and two cephalometric variables (soft palate length, p = 0.01 and width, p = 0.01). Group II showed a significant correlation with the position of the hyoid bone (p = 0.02). Soft palate length and width significantly differed between groups (p = 0.014; 0.016). Conclusion Obese males present wider and longer soft palate dimensions, and patients with a greater BMI present a more inferiorly positioned hyoid bone.

Do the dimensions of the hard palate have a relationship with the volumes of the upper airways and maxillary sinuses? A CBCT study

BackgroundAs the hard palate is a central structure of the skull, and its close relationship with the nasal cavity, oral cavity, and maxillary sinuses, it would be of interest to study if there is a relationship between this bone and other structures of the stomatognathic system. Thus, this study aimed to assess the dimensions of the hard palate and associate them with sex, and skeletal and breathing patterns. Also, to investigate if there is a relationship between these dimensions and the volumes of the upper airways and maxillary sinuses.MethodsTwo hundred and ninety-eight CBCT scans of patients were classified according to sex, and skeletal and breathing patterns. Then, the linear dimensions of width and height of the hard palate at the regions of the first premolars and first molars, and the volumes of the upper airways and maxillary sinuses were measured using the CS 3D Imaging and ITK-SNAP software, respectively. Data were submitted to multi-way analysis of variance and linear regression, with a significance level of 5% (α = 0.05).ResultsSex and facial type influenced the hard palate dimensions (p < 0.05). Males had greater width and height of the hard palate than females (p < 0.0001). It was observed greater width for brachycephalics at the first premolars region (p = 0.0032), and greater height for dolichocephalics at the first premolars (p = 0.0154) and first molars (p = 0.0038) regions. Skeletal malocclusion and breathing pattern did not influence the measurements of the hard palate (p > 0.05). There was a significant relationship between the width and height of the hard palate at the premolar’s region and the total volume of the upper airways (p = 0.018, and p = 0.038), and between both dimensions of the hard palate at the molar’s region and the total volume of the maxillary sinuses (p < 0.0001).ConclusionsThe hard palate dimensions are influenced by sex and facial type, but not by skeletal malocclusion or breathing pattern. Also, there is an association between these dimensions and the volumes of the upper airways and maxillary sinuses.