Panorametric study in a paediatric population in Madrid

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Anthropology

Background:

• Orthopantomography (OPG) is a common radiographic technique in pediatric dentistry.
• Establishing normative data for OPG measurements is crucial for assessing craniofacial development.
• Previous studies have not comprehensively analyzed these measurements by sex and dentition stage in a specific pediatric population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the normal ranges for linear and angular measurements on pediatric orthopantomographies (OPGs).
• To analyze these measurements in relation to sex and different dentition stages (primary, mixed, permanent).
• To evaluate the correlation between right and left-sided measurements on OPGs.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 160 OPGs from Caucasian children aged 4-14 years.
• Inclusion of 44 linear and angular measurements, plus Panoramic Mandibular Index and Antegonial Index.
• Statistical analysis using 95% confidence level to compare groups and assess correlations.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant differences in 11 measurements were found based on sex.
• Significant differences in 44 measurements were observed across different dentition stages.
• A strong correlation was confirmed between measurements on the right and left sides of the mandible.

Conclusions:

• Normality ranges for OPG measurements in children vary significantly with sex and dentition.
• These established ranges can serve as valuable indicators for identifying craniofacial alterations.
• The findings support the use of panoramic measurements in monitoring pediatric craniofacial growth and development.