Cortical bone mineral density in asymmetrical mandibles: a three-dimensional quantitative computed tomography study

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Orthodontics
• Quantitative Imaging

Background:

• Mandibular asymmetry is a common condition affecting facial development.
• Understanding the bone mineralization patterns in asymmetrical mandibles is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the three-dimensional distribution of highly mineralized cortical bone in asymmetrical mandibles.
• To correlate mandibular asymmetry with bone mineralization and muscle morphology.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative computed tomography (QCT) was used to analyze 3D bone distribution in 32 subjects (8-30 years).
• Mandibular length and cross-sectional muscle areas (masseter, medial pterygoid) were measured.
• Statistical analysis correlated bone mineralization with mandibular length and muscle size.

Main Results:

• A significant correlation was found between the shortest mandibular side and increased highly mineralized bone (>1250 mg/cm³).
• A strong correlation (r=0.724) was observed between highly mineralized bone area and the ipsilateral masseter muscle's cross-sectional area.
• Mandibular asymmetry was associated with asymmetrical distribution of highly mineralized cortical bone, influenced by age.

Conclusions:

• Asymmetrical mandibles exhibit distinct patterns of highly mineralized cortical bone distribution.
• Bone mineralization is influenced by mandibular length and ipsilateral muscle development.
• These findings highlight the complex interplay between bone, muscle, and growth in mandibular asymmetry.