Evaluation and Correlation of Facial Asymmetry in Adults with Class I, Class II, and Class III Skeletal Relation

Abstract

Background: The current study with the prime objectives revolved around investigating and evaluating the differences of facial asymmetry in adults who suffer from Class I, Class II, and Class III skeletal relations, and to also evaluate the extent to which soft tissue either accentuate or mask such differences altogether. Material and Methods: A total of 225 frontal photographs of adult patients who was attended and was diagnosed in orthodontic department at Al-Mansoura University and were took to evaluate facial asymmetry. The subjects were divided in three groups; namely Group I, II, and III that pertain to Class I, II, and III patients with each Group/Class appointed to 75 participants respectively. Each Group was divided into sub-groups; a and b, for each Class. Digital photos were took using a Canon 600d digital camera. Result: Findings revealed that between Class I and Class III and Class II and Class III the Pronasale point was the only point that caused a statistical significance as opposed to the Labial Superior and Menton points; (p=0.03, p=0.02) respectively. Other statistically significant differences were found among Class I, II, and III groups regarding the distance between mid-facial plane point and the left exocanthus for; (p = 0.012) and regarding the distance between MFP and the left ala for; (p = 0.04). Conclusion: It was concluded that though Class I, II, and III malocclusions may have distinct skeletal differences, the appearance of the soft tissues can obscure the distinctions, creating a seemingly uniform image. Regarding the PN point, it can be concluded that patients who suffer from Class I, Class II and Class III had a wider right hemiface, and that patients who suffer from Class II and Class III had a wider right hemiface regarding both the LS and ME points respectively. Generally speaking, 56%, 52%, and 52% of the subjects had a wider right hemiface regarding the PN, LS, and ME points respectively.