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Mandibular asymmetry in healthy children
Maija Liukkonen1, Lauri Sillanmäki, Timo Peltomäki
1Department of Oral Development and Orthodontics, Institute of Dentistry and Department of Biostatistics, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
Acta Odontologica Scandinavica
|September 30, 2005
Summary
Healthy children often exhibit statistically significant mandibular asymmetry, though it is rarely clinically significant. This facial asymmetry can change during growth, highlighting the need for careful consideration before orthodontic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric Health
Background:
- Facial asymmetry, often linked to mandibular dimension differences, is common.
- Defining abnormal asymmetry in children lacks established standards.
- Understanding mandibular asymmetry in healthy children is crucial for clinical assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess mandibular asymmetry in healthy children.
- To investigate the fluctuation of mandibular asymmetry during growth.
- To analyze differences in asymmetry between genders.
Main Methods:
- 182 healthy children (ages 7 and 16) underwent orthopantomography.
- Digital analysis of condylar and ramus heights on both sides of the mandible.
- Statistical analysis using paired t-tests and ANOVA.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant differences in mandibular dimensions (condylar and ramus height) between sides were observed.
- Mandibular asymmetry was present in healthy children at both ages.
- Significant changes in asymmetry occurred during growth, with some diminishing and others appearing.
Conclusions:
- Healthy children commonly exhibit statistically significant mandibular asymmetry.
- This asymmetry is seldom clinically significant, requiring careful treatment decisions.
- Mandibular asymmetry can change during childhood and adolescence.
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