Incisors inclination in relation to lip parameters: a CBCT study.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Radiology

Background:

• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) enables precise dental measurements.
• Understanding the relationship between tooth position and facial aesthetics is crucial in orthodontics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between incisor inclination and lip parameters using CBCT.
• To determine if specific incisor inclinations influence lip thickness, length, and position.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational study of 84 orthodontic patients (ages 11-17.5) with pre- and post-treatment CBCT scans.
• 3D Slicer software used for assessing lip parameters and incisor inclinations.
• Statistical analysis to identify associations between incisor inclination and lip measurements.

Main Results:

• Lip parameters showed minimal changes within certain incisor inclination limits.
• Upper incisor inclination changes (avg. 5°) did not significantly correlate with upper lip parameters.
• Lower incisor inclination changes (avg. 5.6°) had no significant effect on lower lip parameters.
• Inclination changes of tooth #21 (within 5.4°) significantly affected upper lip length (by 0.35mm).

Conclusions:

• Lip parameters are generally unaffected by typical ranges of incisor inclination.
• Clinicians should note the slight impact on upper lip length with specific incisor #21 inclination changes.
• These findings aid in orthodontic treatment planning, particularly concerning lip aesthetics.