[Functional and esthetic cephalometric analysis of the profile]

We report a new cephalometric method for profile analysis, which uses strictly exobasicranial landmarks: 13 anatomic points, 9 bone points and 4 skin points. The analysis is based on phylogenetic, ontogenetic, anatomic and biomechanical data. The face is comprised between a new exobasicranial plane represented by the Nasion-Glenion (Na-Gl) and the classical mandibular plane. These two planes form the angle of facial divergence. Orthogonal projection of the axis of the maxillary incisors and the axis of facial growth on the new basicranial plane is then performed. The upper and lower levels of the facial mass are divided sagittally by four vertical anatomic planes perpendicular to the Francfort plane, accounting for the facial skin profile (cutaneous facial plane), the anterior and posterior facial pillars (premaxillary and postmaxillary planes), and the craniospinal postural plane. The ideal occlusion plane is undistinguishable from the curve of Spee. This new cephalometric method for functional and esthetic profile analysis enables simple rapid and efficient study of the main facial and cervical structures.