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Genetics or environment? A twin-method study of malocclusions
Beata Kawala1, Joanna Antoszewska, Agnieszka Necka
1Department of Maxillofacial Orthopedics and Orthodontics, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
World Journal of Orthodontics
|December 21, 2007
Summary
Environmental factors significantly influence malocclusions more than previously thought. This finding supports early orthodontic interventions to mitigate malocclusion development and severity.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Twin studies
- Genetics
Background:
- Malocclusions are common dental issues with complex etiologies.
- Understanding the interplay of genetic and environmental factors is crucial for effective prevention and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the influence of genetic and environmental factors on malocclusions using a twin study.
- To identify malocclusions that may benefit from early orthodontic prophylaxis.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of malocclusion in 164 monozygotic and dizygotic twin pairs.
- Utilized serologic, morphologic, and dermatoglyphic criteria for zygotic status determination.
- Applied the Allen equation to calculate the hereditary coefficient for malocclusions.
Main Results:
- High within-pair malocclusion similarity (80-94%) observed in most groups, except dizygotic males.
- Monzygotic twins showed 100% similarity, while dizygotic females had 57% similarity.
- Hereditary coefficients were generally low, indicating a significant role for environmental factors, particularly in males.
Conclusions:
- Environmental factors play a more substantial role in malocclusion development than previously recognized.
- Early orthodontic intervention is recommended to intercept, disrupt, and reduce the impact of malocclusions.
- Findings support proactive management strategies for malocclusions.
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