Occlusal morphology in 45,X females

Seventy-two 45,X females (Turner syndrome) were examined for occlusal anomalies. Prevalence comparisons were made with first-degree female relatives and female population controls. The method of Björk et al [1964] was used for determination of malocclusion. The results clearly suggest an increased prevalence of occlusal anomalies in 45,X females. The most common malocclusions are cross bite, large maxillary overjet, distal molar occlusion, and a tendency to open bite. These anomalies reflect an imbalanced growth of the craniofacial skeleton in three dimensions. These findings suggest that genes on the human X chromosome are of importance in the harmonious growth and development of the craniofacial skeleton and ultimately normal occlusal morphology and relations.