Moorrees-like mesh diagram for Romanian patients - a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics and Dental Anthropology
• Facial Morphology Analysis
• Cephalometric Radiography

Background:

• Coenraad F.A. Moorrees developed facial mesh diagrams in 1976 for North American patients.
• These diagrams have been adapted for various populations worldwide.
• Orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning benefit from population-specific facial analysis tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create Moorrees-like facial mesh diagrams specifically for the Romanian population (Caucasian race).
• To provide a valuable tool for orthodontists, surgeons, and prosthetists in Romania.
• To enhance the accuracy of orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning for Romanian patients.

Main Methods:

• Lateral cephalometric radiographs of 40 Romanian patients (20 males, 20 females, ages 12-33) were analyzed.
• 35 anthropometric points and 3 reference planes (Frankfurt, vertical, occlusal) were used.
• Arithmetic means of measurements were calculated for males, females, and a mixed group under 12, then plotted onto mesh diagrams.

Main Results:

• Three distinct Moorrees-like mesh diagrams were generated: one for males, one for females, and a mixed one for children under 12.
• These diagrams represent the facial morphology of the Romanian Caucasian population.
• The generated diagrams are tailored for specific demographic groups within the Romanian population.

Conclusions:

• Facial mesh diagrams offer improved insights into facial anatomy and growth patterns.
• These diagrams serve as a practical tool for predicting treatment outcomes in orthodontics.
• Further research could involve developing computer-based programs utilizing these Romanian-adapted Moorrees-like diagrams.