Orofacial indices: a study in 240 Nigerian children

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial morphology
• Pediatric anthropometry
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery

Background:

• Establishing normative orofacial data is essential for diagnosing and treating craniofacial abnormalities.
• Previous studies have not comprehensively documented orofacial indices in Nigerian children.
• Understanding age and sex-specific variations is critical for accurate clinical assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine normal orofacial indices in Nigerian children under 12 years old.
• To analyze variations in these indices based on age and sex.
• To provide baseline data for surgical interventions in the orofacial region.

Main Methods:

• Measurements of mouth width, upper vermilion area, lip curvature, lip height, and oral aperture were taken.
• Children were categorized by age (grouped) and sex.
• Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant differences and variations.

Main Results:

• Orofacial indices demonstrated significant variations with age in Nigerian children.
• No significant sex-based differences were observed, except for upper lip elasticity in 10-11-year-olds.
• The coefficient of upper lip curvature peaked in 2-3-year-olds for both sexes.

Conclusions:

• The established orofacial indices offer valuable baseline data for the Black pediatric population.
• These findings can aid in the surgical planning and execution of orofacial repairs and reconstructions.
• Further research can build upon these normative values for improved clinical outcomes.