Facialprofile determination using a novel face analyzer orthodontic mobile application

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Imaging
• Facial Analysis

Background:

• Facial profile and asymmetry assessment are crucial in orthodontics.
• Manual methods and digital tools are used for analysis.
• Mobile applications offer potential for accessible facial analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the accuracy of manual facial analysis with a mobile application (Face Analyzer).
• To evaluate differences in determining facial profile types (straight, convex, concave) and facial asymmetry.
• To assess the reliability of the Face Analyzer app in orthodontic diagnostics.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study design with 37 patients (9-15 years old).
• Extraoral photographs were analyzed using both manual techniques and the Face Analyzer application.
• Wilcoxon and McNemar's tests were used for statistical analysis.

Main Results:

• Statistical analysis (Wilcoxon test, P=0.157; McNemar's test, P=0.375) showed no significant differences between the two methods.
• The Face Analyzer application provided results comparable to manual assessment for facial profiles and asymmetry.
• P-values greater than 0.05 indicate no statistically significant divergence.

Conclusions:

• The Face Analyzer orthodontic mobile application is a valid tool for assessing facial profiles and asymmetry.
• No significant difference exists between manual assessment and the mobile application.
• This suggests the app can be reliably used in orthodontic practice.