A novel pictorial smile chart: Reliability and validity.

INTRODUCTION: Smile analysis provides data on the positive and negative elements of a patient's smile. We aimed to develop a simple pictorial chart to record relevant parameters of the smile analysis in a single diagram and to investigate the reliability and validity of this chart. METHODS: A panel of 5 orthodontists developed a graphical chart, which was reviewed by 12 orthodontists and 10 orthodontic residents. The chart comprises facial, perioral, and dentogingival zones analyzing 8 continuous and 4 discrete variables. The chart was tested on frontal smiling photographs of 40 young (aged 15-18 years) and 40 old (aged 50-55 years) patients. All measurements were performed twice with an interval of 2 weeks by 2 observers. RESULTS: Pearson's correlation coefficients for observers and age groups varied from 0.860 to 1.000 and between observers from 0.753 to 0.999. Minor significant mean differences were found between the first and second observations, which were not clinically relevant. The kappa scores for the dichotomous variables were in perfect agreement. To test the sensitivity of the smile chart, differences between the two age groups were assessed as differences because aging is expected. In the older age group, philtrum height and visibility of mandibular incisors were significantly larger, whereas the upper lip fullness and buccal corridor visibility were significantly lesser (P <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The newly developed smile chart can record essential smile parameters to aid diagnosis, treatment planning, and research. The chart is simple and easy to use, has face and content validity and good reliability.

Three-Dimensional Analysis of Craniofacial Structures of Individuals With Nonsyndromic Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip and Palate.

ABSTRACT: Cleft lip and palate (CLP) is one of the most common congenital deformities. Primary surgeries at an early age result in scar formation, which may impede the growth of craniofacial structures of the maxilla. Orthodontist's role in the management of individuals with CLP is important and starts from the time of birth. The knowledge of craniofacial structures in individuals with a cleft is essential for treatment planning. The purpose of this study was to analyze and compare craniofacial structures of cleft and noncleft side of individuals with non-syndromic unilateral complete cleft lip and palate (NSUCCLP) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). CBCT scans of individuals with NSUCCLP (n = 42) were retrieved from the databases of two cleft centers, which followed the same protocols for timing and type of primary surgeries and secondary alveolar bone grafting (SABG). DICOM files of CBCT scans were integrated into Dolphin 3D software, and analysis was carried out in multiplanar views. The craniofacial structures of individuals with NSUCCLP were analyzed using fourteen parameters. Measurements were also recorded between the cleft and noncleft sides for comparison. The volume of the maxilla was generated by isolating it from adjacent structures on a 3D reconstructed model. MAWC, MAWPM1, MAWPM2, MAWM1, and MV of the cleft side was less than noncleft side (P < 0.05). MHP @ N Aper is less on the noncleft side (P < 0.05). There is an asymmetry of structures around the dentoalveolar and nasal region; however, asymmetries were not affected at deeper structures of the craniofacial region of individuals with NSUCCLP.

Three-camera setup to record simultaneously standardized high-definition video for smile analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Our objective was to develop a photographic setup that would simultaneously capture subjects' smiles from 3 views, both statically and dynamically, and develop a software to crop the produced video clip and slice the frames to study the smile at different stages. METHODS: Facial images were made of 96 subjects, aged 18 to 28 years, in natural head position using a standardized setup of 3 digital single lens reflex cameras, with a reference sticker (10 × 10 mm) on the forehead of each subject. To test the reproducibility of the setup, 1 operator took 3 images of all subjects on the same day and on 3 different days in a subset of 26 subjects. RESULTS: For the same-day observations, correlation coefficients varied between 0.87 and 0.93. For the observations on 3 different days, correlation coefficients were also high. The duplicate measurement error and the mean difference between measurements were small and not significant, pointing to good reliability. CONCLUSIONS: This new technique to capture standardized high-definition video and still images simultaneously from 3 positions is a reliable and practical tool. The technique is easy to learn and implement in the orthodontic office.

Presurgical Nasoalveolar Molding Therapy Using Figueroa's NAM Technique in Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Patients: A Preliminary Study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to evaluate the results of nasoalveolar molding (NAM) in the treatment of patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate using a modified technique in a South Indian population. STUDY DESIGN: The design was a prospective study with blinded measurements. The sample constituted 10 complete unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) patients who underwent NAM therapy by the same operator. Direct extra and intra oral anthropometric measurements were done using a digital vernier caliper before and after NAM therapy. A photographic evaluation was also done to rate the nasal deformity post NAM therapy. The differences between measurements were statistically analyzed using paired t tests. RESULTS: The extra oral measurements revealed a statistically significant increase in bi-alar width, columellar length and width. The intraoral measurements demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in anterior alveolar cleft width. There was also a significant increase in arch width and greater and lesser segments length. All cases were rated as improved by the surgeons in photographic analysis. CONCLUSION: The study has quantitatively shown that the modified NAM therapy improved nasal asymmetry by columellar lengthening and effectively molded the maxillary alveolar arch.

Clinical application of micro-implant anchorage in initial orthodontic retraction.

Micro-implant is a device that is temporarily fixed to bone for the purpose of enhancing orthodontic anchorage either by supporting the teeth of the reactive unit or by obviating the need for the reactive unit altogether, and which is subsequently removed after use. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficiency of micro-implants in reinforcing anchorage during the initial retraction of anterior teeth, check the rate of initial retraction for 8 weeks, and assess the stability of micro-implants during this period. Eighteen micro-implants were placed (10 in the maxilla and 8 in the mandible) and immediately loaded with 200-250 g of force using 9-mm closed coil Nitinol springs. The amount of space closure was measured every 2 weeks until the eighth week. Cephalometric measurements were made at the end of the study to evaluate anchor loss, if any. Micro-implant stability was also assessed. The rate of initial retraction in the maxilla at the end of 8 weeks was 1.65 mm/quadrant and 1.51 mm/quadrant in the mandible. The amount of retraction on the left side of the arches was 1.66 mm/quadrant and 1.49 mm/quadrant on the right side. The average initial retraction for both arches per month was 0.78 mm. An anchor loss of 0.1 mm (0.06%) was observed in the maxilla while no mandibular anchor loss was recorded. The rate of initial retraction observed in the maxilla was more than that achieved in the mandible. Initial retraction was also more on the left side of the arches. There was no anchor loss in the mandible. The micro-implant-reinforced anchorage was helpful in minimizing anchor loss and accepted heavy traction forces but did not bring about a faster rate of retraction.

A comparision of Twin-block and Forsus (FRD) functional appliance--a cephalometric study.

UNLABELLED: The aim was to compare the effects of Twin-block & Forsus (FRD) functional appliances in the correction of Angles Class II division 1 malocclusions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pre- and post-treatment lateral cephalograms of 25 patients who underwent treatment with twin block for the correction of class II div 1 were compared with 25 patients who underwent treatment with Forsus appliance. These were again compared with the pre follow up and post follow up lateral cephalograms of 25 patients who have not undergone any treatment during this period. All the 3 group patients were compared for skeletal, dental and soft tissue parameters. RESULTS: Cephalometric analysis revealed that both Twin-block & Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device (FRD) appliances stimulated mandibular growth. Statistically significant differences between the two groups were found. Twin-block patients showed statistically very high significant (p < 0.001) increase in mandibular length (6.02 mm) whereas Forsus appliance patients showed significant (p < 0.05) increase in mandibular length (1.6 mm) when compared with control group (0.3 mm). No significant restriction of maxillary growth was found in either of the two experimental groups when compared to control group. Significant increase in lower anterior facial height & posterior facial height was observed in both experimental groups in relation to control group. Significant reduction of overjet and overbite was observed in both experimental groups. Class I molar relationship and improvement in the soft tissue profile were achieved in both treatment groups compared with control group. CONCLUSIONS: Both Twin Block and Forsus were effective in the treatment of Class II Div 1 malocclusion. Class II correction with Twin-block is more due to mandibular skeletal and dentoalveolar changes whereas in Forsus, it is more due to dentoalveolar changes and less skeletal changes.

Association of Nucleotide Variants of GRHL3, IRF6, NAT2, SDC2, BCL3, and PVRL1 Genes with Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip With/Without Cleft Palate in Multigenerational Families: A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Several genes are associated with the etiology of cleft lip and palate (CLP) in different populations. Many nucleotide variants on genes such as GRHL3, IRF6, NAT2, SDC2, BCL3, and PVRL1 were reported in different populations, but not studied in multigenerational cases in the Indian population. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate whether nucleotide variants rs41268753, rs861020, rs1041983, rs1042381, rs2965169, and rs10790332 are involved in the etiology of nonsyndromic CLP (NSCLP) in multigenerational Indian families. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective genetic study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 20 multigenerational families with nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCL/P) were selected. Blood samples from both affected and unaffected participants were collected as a source of genomic DNA. Six nucleotide variants on these genes were genotyped to test for the association with NSCL/P. Genotyping was performed with the MassArray method. Genotype distribution was used to calculate the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium using PLINK, a whole-genome association analysis toolset. The allelic association was compared among cases and controls using Chi-square test as implemented in PLINK. P ≤ 0.05 indicates statistical differences between groups. RESULTS: No significant associations were found between individual single-nucleotide polymorphisms and NSCL/P. The odds ratio was 1.531, 1.198, 0.8082, 1.418, 1, and 0.5929 for polymorphisms rs41268753, rs861020, rs1041983, rs1042381, rs2965169, and rs10790332, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that among the multigenerational families in our population, the high-risk nucleotide variants GRHL3 rs41268753, IRF6 rs861020, NAT2 rs1041983, SDC2 rs1042381, BCL3 rs2965169, and PVRL1 rs10790332 are not associated with increased risk of NSCL/P.

Association of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms on Locus 18q21.1 in the Etiology of Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip Palate (NSCLP) in Indian Multiplex Families.

Background Cleft lip palate (CLP) is a common congenital anomaly with multifactorial etiology. Many polymorphisms at different loci on multiple chromosomes were reported to be involved in its etiology. Genetic research on a single multigenerational American family reported 18q21.1 locus as a high-risk locus for nonsyndromic CLP (NSCLP). However, its association in multiple multiplex families and Indian population is not analyzed for its association in NSCLP. Aim This study was aimed to evaluate whether high-risk single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on chromosome 18q21.1 are involved in the etiology of NSCLP in multiplex Indian families. Materials and Methods Twenty multigenerational families affected by NSCLP were selected for the study after following inclusion and exclusion criteria. Genomic DNA was isolated from the affected and unaffected members of these 20 multiplex families and sent for genetic analysis. High-risk polymorphisms, such as rs6507872 and rs8091995 of CTIF , rs17715416, rs17713847 and rs183559995 of MYO5B , rs78950893 of SMAD7 , rs1450425 of LOXHD1 , and rs6507992 of SKA1 candidate genes on the 18q21.1 locus, were analyzed. SNP genotyping was done using the MassARRAY method. Statistical analysis of the genomic data was done by PLINK. Results Polymorphisms followed the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. In the allelic association, all the polymorphisms had a p -value more than 0.05. The odds ratio was not more than 1.6 for all the SNPs. Conclusion High-risk polymorphisms, such as rs6507872 and rs8091995 of CTIF , rs17715416, rs17713847 and rs183559995 of MYO5B , rs78950893 of SMAD7 , rs1450425 of LOXHD1 , and rs6507992 of SKA1 in the locus 18q21.1, are not associated with NSCLP in Indian multiplex families.

CRISPLD2 Gene Polymorphisms with Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip Palate in Indian Population.

Cleft lip palate (CLP) is one of the common congenital anomalies with multifactorial etiology. Many genes are associated with its etiology. In one of the studies CRISPLD2 gene polymorphisms rs1546124, rs4783099, and rs16974880 were reported in the Chinese population. However, its role in the Indian population is not yet studied. Hence, this research was conducted on the Indian population to know the role of these high-risk polymorphisms in patients with nonsyndromic CLP. Following an inclusion and exclusion criteria, 20 multiplex CLP families were selected from a high volume cleft center in India. Genomic DNA was isolated from these families. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1546124, rs4783099, and rs16974880 were analyzed for their association using MassARRAY method. A whole-genome association analysis toolset, PLINK was used for statistical analysis. The polymorphisms followed Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. None of the polymorphisms showed any significance. Hence the high-risk polymorphisms rs1546124, rs4783099, and rs16974880 are not associated with nonsyndromic CLP in Indian population.

Three-dimensional finite element analysis of initial displacement and stress on the craniofacial structures of unilateral cleft lip and palate model during protraction therapy with variable forces and directions.

Maxillary protraction and expansion is recommended to treat midfacial deficiency in patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP), where amount and direction of forces can change displacement and stress. This study assessed the initial displacement and stresses using Facemask and Maxgym forces with and without RME at +20∘, 0∘, and -20∘ angulation using a finite element (FE) model of unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCCLP). The Initial displacement and stress were more for protraction with expansion as compared to only protraction. Asymmetric displacement was observed with more on cleft than on noncleft side and more on dental than skeletal structures. Palatal plane rotated less upward, increased arch width and decreased arch length was observed with protraction with expansion.

Association of MAPK4 and SOX1-OT gene polymorphisms with cleft lip palate in multiplex families: A genetic study.

Background. Cleft lip and palate (CLP) is a common congenital anomaly. Many genes, like MAPK4 and SOX-1OT, are associated with its etiology in different populations. High-risk markers on these gene sreported in other populations were not studied in our population. Hence, the study aimed to determine the association of MAPK4 and SOX-1OT polymorphisms in CLP in multiplex families. Methods. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, we selected 20 multiplex CLP families for this case‒control study, in which the affected individuals and healthy controls selected from these families were compared. Fifty subjects affected with cleft and 38 unaffected subjects were included in the study. The polymorphisms studied for the association consisted of rs726455 and rs2969972 in the genes SOX-1 OT and MAPK4, respectively. DNA was isolated and sent for genotyping using the MassArray method. Plink, a whole-genome association analysis toolset, was used for statistical analysis. Results. Both polymorphisms followed Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The rs726455 of SOX-1OT yielded a P-value of 0.983 and an allelic odds ratio (OR) of 0.983. For rs2969972 of MAPK4, the P-value was 0.04 (significant), and the allelic OR was 0.51. Minor allele frequency (MAF) in the unaffected subjects was more than the MAF in the affected subjects for rs2969972. Conclusion. The results suggested that polymorphism rs726455 on SOX-1OT was not associated with familial cases of CLP. Since MAF in the unaffected subjects was more than the MAF-affected subjects, rs2969972 on MAPK4 is protective in the multiplex families.

Three-dimensional assessment of transverse displacement with Facemask and Maxgym in unilateral cleft lip and palate model.

BACKGROUND: Growing patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP) exhibit maxillary deficiency due to early surgical intervention. Maxillary protraction with expansion is the recommended treatment modality for deficient maxilla. Facemask is a conventional protraction appliance, and Maxgym is a new protraction appliance. The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of Maxgym with Facemask using finite-element analysis. METHODS: A three-dimensional finite-element model consisting of 49,807 nodes and 185,620 tetrahedral-shaped elements was created using computed tomography scan of a patient with unilateral CLP. F1, F2, and F3 represent different protraction forces of facemask, and M1, M2, and M3 represent different protraction forces of Maxgym. E1 represents slow maxillary expansion (SME) force, and E2 represents rapid maxillary expansion (RME) force. Facemask and Maxgym forces were applied parallel to the occlusal plane from the middle of the clinical crown on the buccal side of the first premolars. The forces E1 and E2 were also applied on the middle of the crown height on the lingual side of the first premolars and the first molars to simulate expansion. The amount of displacement for Maxgym and Facemask forces in transverse direction was analyzed designating specific nodes to represent dental and skeletal structures. RESULTS: The dental and skeletal structures were displaced in transverse direction under all loading conditions. Only expansion or protraction force resulted in transverse displacement of nodes. RME produces greater transverse displacement as compared to SME. Maxgym forces produce greater transverse displacement as compared to facemask. Maxgym with RME produces greater transverse displacement as compared to Maxgym with SME, whereas facemask with RME produces greater transverse displacement as compared to facemask with SME. CONCLUSIONS: Maxgym forces produce greater transverse displacement as compared to facemask with or without expansion.

Angiokeratoma of tongue: a series of 14 cases.

Angiokeratomas (AC) are vascular lesions which are defined histologically as one or more dilated blood vessels lying directly subepidermal and showing an epidermal proliferative reaction with ectatic capillaries in the papillary dermis. Only three other cases of isolated mucosal angiokeratoma have been reported in the indexed literature. We reviewed all cases of angiokeratoma located on the tongue, diagnosed in our department during a study period of 10 years (1995-2005). Histologically all 14 cases showed dilated and congested blood vessels in the upper papillary dermis. They lack deep dermal involvement. Hyperkeratosis and acanthosis were also seen in most of the cases. No clinical data was available to assess systemic disease. A higher incidence of of AC in tongue is seen in our study.

Estimation of soft- and hard-tissue thickness at implant sites.

INTRODUCTION: Anchorage control is a critical consideration when planning treatment for patients with dental and skeletal malocclusions. To obtain sufficient stability of implants, the thickness of the soft tissue and the cortical-bone in the placement site must be considered; so as to provide an anatomical map in order to assist the clinician in the placement of the implants. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the thickness of soft- and hard-tissue. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To measure soft tissue and cortical-bone thicknesses, 12 maxillary cross-sectional specimens were obtained from the cadavers, which were made at three maxillary mid-palatal suture areas: The interdental area between the first and second premolars (Group 1), the second premolar and the first molar (Group 2), and the first and second molars (Group 3). Sectioned samples along with reference rulers were digitally scanned. Scanned images were calibrated and measurements were made with image-analysis software. We measured the thickness of soft and hard-tissues at five sectional areas parallel to the buccopalatal cementoenamel junction (CEJ) line at 2-mm intervals and also thickness of soft tissue at the six landmarks including the incisive papilla (IP) on the palate. The line perpendicular to the occlusal plane was made and measurement was taken at 4-mm intervals from the closest five points to IP. RESULTS: (1) Group 1:6 mm from CEJ in buccal side and 2 mm from CEJ in palatal side. (2) Group 2:8 mm from CEJ in buccal side and 4 mm from CEJ in palatal side. (3) Group 3:8 mm from CEJ in buccal side and 8 mm from CEJ in palatal side. CONCLUSIONS: The best site for placement of implant is with thinnest soft tissue and thickest hard tissue, which is in the middle from CEJ in buccal side and closest from CEJ in palatal side in Group 1 and faraway from CEJ in buccal side and closest from CEJ in palatal side in Group 2 and faraway from CEJ in buccal side and faraway from CEJ in palatal side in Group 3.

An adjunctive minor surgical procedure for increased rate of retraction.

INTRODUCTION: Orthodontic treatment is based on the principle that if prolonged pressure is applied to the tooth, tooth movement will occur as the bone around the tooth re-models. In this study osteotomy of buccal alveolar plate and undermining of interseptal bone was performed at premolar extraction site and rate of en-masse retraction and canine retraction was evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients between the age of 18 and 25 years, requiring retraction of anterior teeth are selected for the study. Osteotomy with undermining of interseptal bone at the extraction site was performed. The procedure was performed on all four quadrants. RESULTS: The average retraction in the maxillary arch was 0.98 mm/quadrant in 3 weeks, i.e., a total retraction of 5.89 mm in a span of 9 weeks. The average retraction in the mandibular arch was 0.96 mm/quadrant in 3 weeks, i.e., a total retraction of 5.75 mm in a span of 9 weeks. CONCLUSION: This method of achieving faster en masse retraction immediately after extraction definitely reduced the initial retraction time. We recommend that such procedure must be carried out with appropriate anchorage conservation methods.