Craniofacial Cephalometric Morphology in Polish Adolescents with Cleft Palate Only.

Background: Cephalometric studies indicate that craniofacial morphology in patients with cleft palate only (CPO) differs from other forms of orofacial clefts and healthy patients. Planning orthodontic treatment for patients with different craniofacial deformities requires knowledge on the craniofacial complex. The aim of the present study was to describe the cephalometric craniofacial morphology in adolescents with cleft palate only compared to generally healthy orthodontic patients. Methods: The study comprised 100 lateral cephalograms (taken in the years 2003-2020) of Polish patients with cleft palate only aged from 11.1 to 14.2 (mean age 12.43 y) and a matched control group of 100 children without orofacial clefts aged 12-14 (mean age 12.25). All digital images were analyzed in specialized cephalometric software. Results: Statistically significantly lower values of both SNA (p < 0.001) and ANB (p < 0.001) were found in the study group versus the control group. Mandibular line to cranial base angle (ML-NSL) as well as maxillary base to cranial base (NL-NSL) were significantly higher in the CPO group. Both the maxilla and mandible were rotated distally in CPO. Moreover, the intermaxillary vertical angle (ML-NL) was reduced in CPO. Mandibular angle in CPO was significantly higher (p = 0.005), reflecting posterior mandibular rotation. Conclusions: In adolescents with CPO, maxillary deficiency is found, without a severe sagittal jaw discrepancy, with a slight compensatory lingual inclination of the lower incisors. Mandibular deficiency in CPO is concurrent with posterior rotation and an increased mandibular angle.

TLR2 and TLR4 Polymorphisms Are Not Associated with Dental Caries in Polish Children.

The aim of the present study was to analyze the association of the TLR2 (Toll-like receptor 2 gene) 2258G>A (rs5743708), TLR4 (Toll-like receptor 4 gene) 896A>G (rs4986790), and TLR4 1196C>T (rs4986791) polymorphisms with dental caries in Polish children. The participants, 261 15-year-old children, were divided into two groups: 82 cases (i.e., children with DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth) index >5, having either moderate or high caries experience, assigned as the "higher" caries experience group) and 179 controls (i.e., children with DMFT ≤ 5, having either low or very low caries experience, assigned as the "lower" caries experience group). Genomic DNA was isolated from buccal swabs, and genotyping was determined by means of real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction). There were no significant differences in the genotype or allele distributions in all tested SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) between children with "higher" caries experience and those with "lower" caries experience. TLR4 haplotype frequencies did not differ significantly between cases and controls. In an additional analysis with another case definition applied (subjects with DMFT ≥ 1 were assigned as "cases", whereas children with DMFT = 0 were assigned as "controls"), no significant differences in the TLR2 and TLR4 genotype, allele frequencies, and TLR4 haplotype frequencies were found between the case and the control groups. The results of the present study broaden our knowledge on the potential genetic factors that might affect caries risk and suggest that TLR2 rs5743708 and TLR4 rs4986790 and rs4986791 SNPs are not associated with dental caries susceptibility in Polish children.

Comparison of Three Commercially Available, AI-Driven Cephalometric Analysis Tools in Orthodontics.

Background: Cephalometric analysis (CA) is an indispensable diagnostic tool in orthodontics for treatment planning and outcome assessment. Manual CA is time-consuming and prone to variability. Methods: This study aims to compare the accuracy and repeatability of CA results among three commercial AI-driven programs: CephX, WebCeph, and AudaxCeph. This study involved a retrospective analysis of lateral cephalograms from a single orthodontic center. Automated CA was performed using the AI programs, focusing on common parameters defined by Downs, Ricketts, and Steiner. Repeatability was tested through 50 randomly reanalyzed cases by each software. Statistical analyses included intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC3) for agreement and the Friedman test for concordance. Results: One hundred twenty-four cephalograms were analyzed. High agreement between the AI systems was noted for most parameters (ICC3 > 0.9). Notable differences were found in the measurements of angle convexity and the occlusal plane, where discrepancies suggested different methodologies among the programs. Some analyses presented high variability in the results, indicating errors. Repeatability analysis revealed perfect agreement within each program. Conclusions: AI-driven cephalometric analysis tools demonstrate a high potential for reliable and efficient orthodontic assessments, with substantial agreement in repeated analyses. Despite this, the observed discrepancies and high variability in part of analyses underscore the need for standardization across AI platforms and the critical evaluation of automated results by clinicians, particularly in parameters with significant treatment implications.

The Micromechanical Properties and Surface Roughness of Orthodontic Retainer Wires-An In Vitro Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Despite the large variety of retainer wires available, no studies could be found comparing the micromechanical properties and surface roughness of different retainer wires. Such characteristics affect the survival of the fixed retainer in terms of both fracture resistance and resistance to debonding from the tooth. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine and compare those characteristics in popular retainer wires. METHODS: six different popular orthodontic retainer wires were subjected to instrumental indentation based on the Oliver and Pharr method. The geometric surface structure was analysed using a non-contact profilometer. RESULTS: stainless steel wires had a higher hardness and a higher elastic modulus compared to titanium wires and white gold chain. The titanium wire and the white gold chain showed much more roughness than other wires. CONCLUSIONS: stainless steel wires are the most resistant, considering both the shape retention capacity and the ability to resist abrasive wear. The titanium wire showed the lowest hardness and, thus, the highest susceptibility to deformation. Bond-a-braid, Retainium and Orthoflex white gold are more resistant to fracture than other steel wires. Titanium wire and chain retainer wires have more roughness, which is a great advantage in terms of mechanical adhesion to composite materials.

Accuracy of Artificial Intelligence for Cervical Vertebral Maturation Assessment-A Systematic Review.

Background/Objectives: To systematically review and summarize the existing scientific evidence on the diagnostic performance of artificial intelligence (AI) in assessing cervical vertebral maturation (CVM). This review aimed to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of AI algorithms in comparison to those of experienced clinicians. Methods: Comprehensive searches were conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase, using a combination of Boolean operators and MeSH terms. The inclusion criteria were cross-sectional studies with neural network research, reporting diagnostic accuracy, and involving human subjects. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers, with a third reviewer resolving any disagreements. The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS)-2 tool was used for bias assessment. Results: Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria, predominantly employing supervised learning techniques, especially convolutional neural networks (CNNs). The diagnostic accuracy of AI models for CVM assessment varied widely, ranging from 57% to 95%. The factors influencing accuracy included the type of AI model, training data, and study methods. Geographic concentration and variability in the experience of radiograph readers also impacted the results. Conclusions: AI has considerable potential for enhancing the accuracy and reliability of CVM assessments in orthodontics. However, the variability in AI performance and the limited number of high-quality studies suggest the need for further research.

The Significance of Keratinized Mucosa in Implant Therapy: Narrative Literature Review and Case Report Presentation.

Background/Objectives: Implant treatment in patients who require teeth extraction due to periodontitis presents a significant challenge. The consideration of peri-implantitis is crucial when planning the placement of dental implants. The predictability of implant treatment relies on the suitability of both hard and soft tissue quality. The aim of this article is to present a case report demonstrating a secure treatment protocol for implant procedures in patients with periodontitis requiring the extraction of all teeth, soft tissue management targeted at increasing the keratinized mucosa zone, and the provision of a reliable prosthetic solution. The secondary objective is to review the relevant literature regarding the significance of keratinized mucosa surrounding dental implants and its association with the occurrence of peri-implantitis. Case presentation: A 65-year-old female with generalized periodontitis, stage IV grade C and very poor oral hygiene came for treatment and rehabilitation of the lower jaw. CBCT revealed periodontal lesions and labio-lingual ridge dimensions in the region of teeth 34-44 from 8.0 to 10.2 mm. The first surgery included teeth extraction and periodontal lesions enucleation with simultaneous placement of four implants in the positions of teeth 32, 34, 42, 44. The second-stage surgery involved increasing the keratinized mucosa using two free gingival grafts. Conclusions: The present case report described the treatment process of the patient with periodontitis, including immediate implantation in the infected region, soft tissue augmentation using free gingival grafts and the ultimate placement of a bar-retained overdenture for final restoration. After two years of observation, despite questionable hygiene, no symptoms of gingival inflammation were detected. Furthermore, there is limited information in the literature regarding the correlation between inadequate keratinized gingiva and the occurrence of peri-implantitis.

Periapical Lesions in Panoramic Radiography and CBCT Imaging-Assessment of AI's Diagnostic Accuracy.

Background/Objectives: Periapical lesions (PLs) are frequently detected in dental radiology. Accurate diagnosis of these lesions is essential for proper treatment planning. Imaging techniques such as orthopantomogram (OPG) and cone-beam CT (CBCT) imaging are used to identify PLs. The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of artificial intelligence (AI) software Diagnocat for PL detection in OPG and CBCT images. Methods: The study included 49 patients, totaling 1223 teeth. Both OPG and CBCT images were analyzed by AI software and by three experienced clinicians. All the images were obtained in one patient cohort, and findings were compared to the consensus of human readers using CBCT. The AI's diagnostic accuracy was compared to a reference method, calculating sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and F1 score. Results: The AI's sensitivity for OPG images was 33.33% with an F1 score of 32.73%. For CBCT images, the AI's sensitivity was 77.78% with an F1 score of 84.00%. The AI's specificity was over 98% for both OPG and CBCT images. Conclusions: The AI demonstrated high sensitivity and high specificity in detecting PLs in CBCT images but lower sensitivity in OPG images.

Noise-Optimized CBCT Imaging of Temporomandibular Joints-The Impact of AI on Image Quality.

Background: Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a common medical condition. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is effective in assessing TMD-related bone changes, but image noise may impair diagnosis. Emerging deep learning reconstruction algorithms (DLRs) could minimize noise and improve CBCT image clarity. This study compares standard and deep learning-enhanced CBCT images for image quality in detecting osteoarthritis-related degeneration in TMJs (temporomandibular joints). This study analyzed CBCT images of patients with suspected temporomandibular joint degenerative joint disease (TMJ DJD). Methods: The DLM reconstructions were performed with ClariCT.AI software. Image quality was evaluated objectively via CNR in target areas and subjectively by two experts using a five-point scale. Both readers also assessed TMJ DJD lesions. The study involved 50 patients with a mean age of 28.29 years. Results: Objective analysis revealed a significantly better image quality in DLM reconstructions (CNR levels; p < 0.001). Subjective assessment showed high inter-reader agreement (κ = 0.805) but no significant difference in image quality between the reconstruction types (p = 0.055). Lesion counts were not significantly correlated with the reconstruction type (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The analyzed DLM reconstruction notably enhanced the objective image quality in TMJ CBCT images but did not significantly alter the subjective quality or DJD lesion diagnosis. However, the readers favored DLM images, indicating the potential for better TMD diagnosis with CBCT, meriting more study.

Tooth Colour and Facial Attractiveness: Study Protocol for Self-Perception with a Gender-Based Approach.

(1) Background. The aim of the present protocol is to assess whether self-perception of tooth colour and facial attractiveness correlates with gender and mood state. (2) Study protocol. The protocol foresees a cross-sectional clinical study, developed by Sapienza University of Rome, Italy, Department of Oral and MaxilloFacial Sciences, and 15 UNID (Unione Nazionale Igienisti Dentali-National Union of Dental Hygienists)-affiliated clinical centers in Italy. The protocol consists of a clinical visit, during which photographic documentation of the face and smile is collected with spectrophotometric evaluation of tooth colour. During the visit, two validated questionnaires are filled in. The first one is filled by the operator for the collection of data on: i) patient's face and smile colorimetric characteristics; ii) patient's and operator's evaluations of the dental colour and smile attractiveness. The second one is completed by the patient for the assessment of his/her mood state. (3) Conclusions. This protocol highlights the importance in aesthetic dentistry of a gender-specific approach and the limitations of gender-neutral models, revealing the existing gender differences in aesthetic self-perception. In addition, the colour-matching relationships between facial and dental colour characteristics will be explored. This approach improves the accuracy and personalization of aesthetic assessments in dentistry, by addressing personalized and gender-specific needs. A gender-inclusive methodology that takes a more nuanced and culturally aware approach to aesthetic dentistry is a useful adjunct to modern clinical practices.

A Clinician's Perspective on the Accuracy of the Shade Determination of Dental Ceramics-A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: No systematic review or meta-analysis has been identified that provides a clinician's perspective on the shade selection process for ceramic restorations. The aim of the present systematic review is to find and systematize the available knowledge by referring to the methods to assess the color of dental ceramics. METHODS: The final search was performed on 10 December 2023 in six search engines. The keywords used in the search strategy were as follows: ("color matching" OR "shade matching" OR "color measurement" AND "porcelain" OR "dental ceramics") AND "dentistry" AND "accuracy". RESULTS: The search strategy identified 139 potential articles. After the screening process, sixteen articles were included in the review. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, the most common method, the visual method, has lower accuracy and repeatability. Devices like spectrophotometers and colorimeters provide precise, repeatable, and objective measurements, but fail to be widely applied in everyday clinical practice. Clinicians should not rely solely on their senses for shade determination, but should turn to quantitative methods. Colorimetric devices connected to mobile applications are an interesting and useful tool. Software and apps based on artificial intelligence are emerging as promising tools, but they require further research.

Orthodontic treatment demand for fixed treatment and aligners among young adults in middle Europe and South America - a questionnaire study.

BACKGROUND: Patients experiencing any malocclusion, may desire for treatment. However, there is no scientific information orthodontic treatment demand and the knowledge of young adults about orthodontic treatment. The aim of the study was to assess orthodontic treatment demand in young adults from Poland and Chile, their previous orthodontic experience and their knowledge on fixed and aligner orthodontic treatment. METHODS: The target group comprised people aged 18-30. The sample size was estimated as above 400 for each country. The survey was carried out in Polish and Spanish within 3 months and consisted of 25 questions delivered via social media. Comparisons were made between countries, age subgroups and gender. RESULTS: The response rate was 1,99%, what stands for 1092 responses, 670 from Chile and 422 from Poland, respectively. The percentage of young adults who were already treated was 42,9% in Poland and 25,0% in Chile. The ones planning to have orthodontic treatment within a year counted for 11,8% in Poland and 5,3% in Chile. Most young adults who want to be treated (20,6%) rely on doctor's recommendation on type of appliance while 14,7% of all respondents are interested solely in aligners. Most respondents have heard about aligners (58%). Direct provider-to-customer service without a doctor is not acceptable, neither in Poland (85,1%) nor in Chile (64,8%). Most young adults provided incorrect answers referring various aspects of aligner treatment. CONCLUSIONS: In both countries, patients demand to be treated and monitored by the orthodontist. A high percentage of patients want to be treated exclusively with aligners. Direct-to-consumer orthodontics does not seem attractive to patients. Young adults do not have adequate knowledge referring to aligner treatment. Many people want to be treated despite a previous orthodontic treatment.

Association of Three Genetic Loci with Molar Incisor Hypomineralization in Polish Children.

BACKGROUND: Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a qualitative, demarcated enamel defect of hypomineralization affecting one to four first permanent molars, often with incisor involvement. Its etiology is complex. However, evidence suggests the influence of genetic factors, potentially including the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs2889956, rs4811117 and rs13058467, which were previously linked to MIH in a genome-wide association study of German children. The aim was to replicate analyses of possible associations between the SNPs and molar incisor hypomineralization in Polish children. METHODS: The final study group consisted of 778 children aged 126-168 months old. Saliva samples were taken, and genomic DNA was extracted and genotyped using beadchip microarrays. RESULTS: Among the 778 subjects, there were 68 (8.7%) subjects with MIH and 710 (91.3%) subjects without MIH. There were no significant differences in distributions in age, sex, or the frequency of caries in permanent dentition between the MIH and non-MIH groups. The rs2889956, rs4811117, and rs13058467 genotype distributions in the studied group conformed to the expected Hardy-Weinberg equilibria, and there were no significant differences in the distributions of their alleles or genotypes between the MIH and non-MIH groups. CONCLUSION: Our replication study did not confirm highly significant associations between the single nucleotide polymorphisms rs2889956, rs4811117, and rs13058467 with molar incisor hypomineralization in Polish children.

Skeletal facial asymmetry: reliability of manual and artificial intelligence-driven analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To compare artificial intelligence (AI)-driven web-based platform and manual measurements for analysing facial asymmetry in craniofacial CT examinations. METHODS: The study included 95 craniofacial CT scans from patients aged 18-30 years. The degree of asymmetry was measured based on AI platform-predefined anatomical landmarks: sella (S), condylion (Co), anterior nasal spine (ANS), and menton (Me). The concordance between the results of automatic asymmetry reports and manual linear 3D measurements was calculated. The asymmetry rate (AR) indicator was determined for both automatic and manual measurements, and the concordance between them was calculated. The repeatability of manual measurements in 20 randomly selected subjects was assessed. The concordance of measurements of quantitative variables was assessed with interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) according to the Shrout and Fleiss classification. RESULTS: Erroneous AI tracings were found in 16.8% of cases, reducing the analysed cases to 79. The agreement between automatic and manual asymmetry measurements was very low (ICC < 0.3). A lack of agreement between AI and manual AR analysis (ICC type 3 = 0) was found. The repeatability of manual measurements and AR calculations showed excellent correlation (ICC type 2 > 0.947). CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that the rate of tracing errors and lack of agreement with manual AR analysis make it impossible to use the tested AI platform to assess the degree of facial asymmetry.

AI in Orthodontics: Revolutionizing Diagnostics and Treatment Planning-A Comprehensive Review.

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine has transformed various medical specialties, including orthodontics. AI has shown promising results in enhancing the accuracy of diagnoses, treatment planning, and predicting treatment outcomes. Its usage in orthodontic practices worldwide has increased with the availability of various AI applications and tools. This review explores the principles of AI, its applications in orthodontics, and its implementation in clinical practice. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on AI applications in dental diagnostics, cephalometric evaluation, skeletal age determination, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) evaluation, decision making, and patient telemonitoring. Due to study heterogeneity, no meta-analysis was possible. AI has demonstrated high efficacy in all these areas, but variations in performance and the need for manual supervision suggest caution in clinical settings. The complexity and unpredictability of AI algorithms call for cautious implementation and regular manual validation. Continuous AI learning, proper governance, and addressing privacy and ethical concerns are crucial for successful integration into orthodontic practice.

The HINT1 Gene rs2526303 Polymorphism and Its Association with Personality Traits in Cigarette Smokers.

The development of a substance use disorder (SUD) is a multifaceted process influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Recent research has suggested the potential involvement of the HINT1 gene in various aspects of plasticity, mood regulation, anxiety-like behaviour, and stress-coping mechanisms. Moreover, personality traits are also recognised to be instrumental in developing substance dependency. Given these considerations, our study investigated the associations among cigarette smoking, personality traits, and the rs2526303 polymorphism. Additionally, we investigated the interactions between personality traits and rs2526303 in the HINT1 gene. The study group comprised 531 volunteers: 375 cigarette users (mean age = 29.42 ± 10.72; F = 49%, M = 51%) and 156 never-smokers (mean age = 26.93 ± 10.09; F = 79%, M = 21%). Genotyping was conducted using the real-time PCR method, and the NEO Five-Factor Personality Inventory and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were administered. There were no statistically significant differences in the frequency of rs2526303 genotypes and alleles in the cigarette user group compared to the control group. Compared to the control group, the cigarette users obtained higher scores in the assessment of the NEO-FFI Extraversion scale and lower results for the NEO-FFI Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness scales. Additionally, there was a statistically significant effect of rs2526303 genotype interaction and cigarette-using status on the conscientiousness scale. These outcomes collectively suggest a notable association between cigarette smoking and specific dimensions of personality, particularly highlighting differences in extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. Furthermore, the detected interaction effect involving rs2526303 concerning conscientiousness signifies a complex interplay between genetic factors and smoking behaviour.

Three-dimensional microanalysis of tooth movement during the first 6 months of orthodontic double retention.

INTRODUCTION: This study performed a 3-dimensional analysis of tooth movement during orthodontic retention to assess the effectiveness of double retention (fixed and removable) in preventing undesired tooth movement. METHODS: One hundred randomly selected patients were included at the initiation of double orthodontic retention with fixed retainers and vacuum-formed splints (recommended to be worn 22 h/d) in both arches. Intraoral scans were performed directly (T0), 1 month (n = 88), 3 months (T2) (n = 78), and 6 months (T3) (n = 66) after retainer bonding. Nine reference points were marked on each tooth in every patient. Subsequent scans were superimposed, and point displacement was calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using the R statistical software (version 4.2.2; R Core Team, Vienna, Austria). RESULTS: Sample size calculation determined at least 55 patients were needed. The total dropout between T0 and T3 was 34 patients (did not show up for appointment). The median absolute displacement value of a single point between T0 and T3 was 0.015 mm. The most stable teeth were mandibular central incisors, whereas the least stable were mandibular molars. Most tooth displacements occurred between T0 and T2, then slowed down significantly. CONCLUSIONS: Double orthodontic retention prevents major tooth displacements in most patients during the first 6 months of retention; however, larger, unpredictable single-tooth displacement may occur in individual patients.

Influence of Shortened Tongue Frenulum on Tongue Mobility, Speech and Occlusion.

(1) Background: The incidence of ankyloglossia is 0.02-10.7%. Its effect on selected dysfunctions has been described; however, no studies report its impact on several disorders in a group of subjects. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of ankyloglossia on swallowing, speech, occlusion and periodontium. (2) Methods: The study group consisted of 86 patients with ankyloglossia, and the control group (n = 86) had a normal tongue frenulum. Type of swallowing, tongue mobility, speech, occlusion and periodontium were assessed. (3) Results: Ankyloglossia pertained to 75.6% patients with infantile swallowing and 41.3% patients with mature swallowing. Limited tongue mobility was found in 29.4% subjects with moderate ankyloglossia and 70.6% subjects with severe ankyloglossia. All subjects with mild ankyloglossia and all the controls had normal tongue mobility. The relationship between dysglossia and ankyloglossia severity was statistically significant. Malocclusion or crowding was diagnosed in 62% subjects with ankyloglossia and 21.6% subjects in the control group. No periodontal abnormalities were found in any subject. (4) Conclusions: (1) A short tongue frenulum negatively influences swallowing and is associated with an "infantile swallowing pattern". (2) Moderate or severe ankyloglossia significantly limits tongue mobility. (3) A short tongue frenulum negatively influences speech. (4) Ankyloglossia is associated with higher prevalence of malocclusion.

Correlation Analysis of Nasal Septum Deviation and Results of AI-Driven Automated 3D Cephalometric Analysis.

The nasal septum is believed to play a crucial role in the development of the craniofacial skeleton. Nasal septum deviation (NSD) is a common condition, affecting 18-65% of individuals. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of NSD and its potential association with abnormalities detected through cephalometric analysis using artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. The study included CT scans of 120 consecutive, post-traumatic patients aged 18-30. Cephalometric analysis was performed using an AI web-based software, CephX. The automatic analysis comprised all the available cephalometric analyses. NSD was assessed using two methods: maximum deviation from an ideal non-deviated septum and septal deviation angle (SDA). The concordance of repeated manual measurements and automatic analyses was assessed. Of the 120 cases, 90 met the inclusion criteria. The AI-based cephalometric analysis provided comprehensive reports with over 100 measurements. Only the hinge axis angle (HAA) and SDA showed significant (p = 0.039) negative correlations. The rest of the cephalometric analyses showed no correlation with the NSD indicators. The analysis of the agreement between repeated manual measurements and automatic analyses showed good-to-excellent concordance, except in the case of two angular measurements: LI-N-B and Pr-N-A. The CephX AI platform showed high repeatability in automatic cephalometric analyses, demonstrating the reliability of the AI model for most cephalometric analyses.

Morphological Variations and Anomalies of the Sella Turcica on Lateral Cephalograms of Cleft-Palate-Only (CPO) Patients.

Sella turcica abnormalities were reported in malocclusions and clefts. No studies were found on sella turcica abnormalities in CPO patients. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of sella turcica abnormalities on cephalometric radiographs in CPO versus non-cleft orthodontic patients. Cephalograms of CPO patients (n = 89) and controls (n = 89) were analyzed for normal sella turcicae and sella turcica abnormalities. Then, cephalometric analysis was performed using specialized software. Statistical analysis was performed using the Rv.4.1.1 package. No variation in or anomaly of the sella turcica was more frequent in CPO compared to non-cleft individuals. Patients with hypertrophic posterior clinoid process had higher interincisal and 1+:Nasion-A angles. Subjects with hypertrophic posterior clinoid process and double contour of the floor had higher Sella-Nasion-A, Sella-Nasion-B and Sella-Nasion-Pogonion and lower ANB. A pyramidal shape of the dorsum sellae was more prevalent in males, as was double contour of the floor in females. Subjects with an oblique anterior wall had lower SNB, GntgoAr and NLA. Subjects with a normal sella had higher SNPg, ML-NSL and 1+:NAmm. A normal sella was more prevalent in younger patients. CPO is not associated with sella turcica abnormalities compared to non-cleft orthodontic patients.

Craniofacial Cephalometric Morphology in Caucasian Adult Patients with Cleft Palate Only (CPO).

Orofacial clefts are common birth defects that affect the morphology of the skull. Cleft palate only (CPO) has a different etiology than other types of clefts, and craniofacial morphology in CPO differs from that of UCLP and BCLP. The long-term effect of the cleft and its surgery is visible after growth cessation. However, few studies exist describing cephalometric craniofacial morphology in adults with CPO. The aim of the present study was to describe the cephalometric craniofacial morphology of adult patients with CPO compared to healthy patients. The study included analysis of cephalometric lateral headfilms of 28 adults with CPO and 28 healthy subjects. It was found that the angles of SNA, ANB, 1-:NB angle (°) and Wits appraisal were significantly smaller in CPO, whereas NL-NSL (°), 1+:NA angle (°) and 1+:NA (mm) had significantly higher values in CPO compared to the control group. It has been concluded that CPO in adult patients is characterized by a sagittal jaw discrepancy due to maxillary deficiency, with a tendency for compensatory inclination of the upper and lower incisors.