Relationship between unilateral posterior crossbite and mandibular asymmetry during late adolescence.

The aim of the study: Was to evaluate the relationship of mandibular condylar and ramal symmetry with unilateral posterior crossbite during late adolescence.

Material and method: 120 pre-orthodontic patients of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Department of Orthodontics were included in the study. The main inclusion criteria of the study group were the following: permanent dentition, age 15 to 18 years, unilateral crossbite. Panoramic radiographs database were analyzed, the following parameters were evaluated: mandibular condylar and ramal height, and asymmetry index according to Habets' technique. Statistical data analysis was performed using SPSS 22.0 statistical software.

Results: In the study group the mandibular condylar height, ramal height, and ramal plus condylar height on the crossbite side were statistically significantly lower than those on the noncrossbite side. Comparing the asymmetry indices between the study and the control groups, it was found all indices were statistically significantly higher in the group with unilateral posterior crossbite than those in the control group, p<0.001.

Conclusion: Relationship between unilateral posterior crossbite and mandibular asymmetry during late adolescent was found, in subjects with unilateral posterior crossbite statistically significantly reduced mandibular condylar height and mandibular ramal height on the crossbite side was detected, they demonstrated a higher mandibular condylar and mandibular ramal asymmetry index, compared to the control group subjects, p<0.001.