Relationship of sagittal skeletal patterns with the nasal morphology in Iranian orthodontic patients

This study aimed to assess the relationship between sagittal skeletal patterns and nasal morphology in Iranian orthodontic patients.

This descriptive study included 120 orthodontic patients aged 18-30 years with different sagittal skeletal pattern, classified based on ANB angle and Wits appraisal. A lateral cephalogram and frontal- and profile-view photographs were obtained from the patients. Nasal length was measured on both the cephalograms and photographs. Nasal parameters were assessed and compared using the Chi-square test, independent t-test, ANOVA, and Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05).

Of all participants, 77 (64.2%) were female and 43 (35.8%) were male, with a mean age of 22.42 ± 4.39 years. The three sagittal skeletal classes of malocclusion (Class I, II, and III) demonstrated distinct nasal morphology characteristics. No significant differences were found among the three classes in nasal length, nasal depth 1 (the perpendicular distance between point Pe and the line drawn from N to Sn), nasal depth 2 (the distance between points Ac and Pr), intercanthal distance, or facial height (P > 0.05). However, alar width, nasolabial angle, and dorsum convexity were significantly greater in Class II patients compared to Class I and III patients, while the nasomental angle and columella convexity were significantly greater in Class III patients compared to Class I and II patients (P < 0.05).

This study revealed significant differences in nasal morphology among different sagittal skeletal patterns, emphasizing the importance of considering nasal features in orthodontic treatment planning. Gender-specific variations further underscore the value of personalized treatment approaches for optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes.