Evaluation of mandibular condyle and gonial angle in different vertical pattern using cone-beam computed tomography
Yasmin Mohamed Tawfik Ibrahim, Nahla E. Gomaa, Sherif F. RamadanBackground
The volume and morphology of the mandibular condyle play a crucial role in the functional stability and long-term success of orthodontic and orthognathic treatments. Vertical facial patterns influence occlusal force and masticatory muscle activity. Notably, hyperdivergent individuals tend to present with smaller condyles and a more obtuse gonial angle compared to hypodivergent individuals.
Objective
This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between vertical facial patterns and temporomandibular joint morphology using cone-beam computed tomography.
Patients and methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted on cone-beam computed tomography scans of 150 orthodontic patients (aged 17–22 years), categorized into three equal groups based on vertical facial pattern: hyperdivergent, normodivergent, and hypodivergent. Measurements included condylar volume, fossa length and height, joint spaces (anterior, superior, posterior), gonial angle, anterior facial height, and posterior facial height. All measurements were performed using Materialise Mimics Medical, Version 21.0.
Results
There were no statistically significant differences among the three groups regarding condylar volume, fossa length and height, anterior joint space, posterior joint space, or anterior facial height (
Conclusion
Vertical facial patterns are associated with variations in certain temporomandibular joint and craniofacial measurements. Specifically, superior joint space, gonial angle, and posterior facial height differ significantly among hyperdivergent, normodivergent, and hypodivergent patients.