Angular photogrammetric analysis of the soft-tissue facial profile of Indian adults.

INTRODUCTION:: Soft-tissue analysis has become an important component of orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. Photographic evaluation of an orthodontic patient is a very close representation of the appearance of the person. The previously established norms for soft-tissue analysis will vary for different ethnic groups. Thus, there is a need to develop soft-tissue facial profile norms pertaining to Indian ethnic groups. AIM AND OBJECTIVES:: The aim of this study is to establish the angular photogrammetric standards of soft-tissue facial profile for Indian males and females and also to compare sexual dimorphism present between them. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The lateral profile photographs of 300 random participants (150 males and 150 females) between ages 18 and 25 years were taken and analyzed using FACAD tracing software. Inclusion criteria were angles Class I molar occlusion with acceptable crowding and proclination, normal growth and development with well-aligned dental arches, and full complements of permanent teeth irrespective of third molar status. This study was conducted in Indian population, and samples were taken from various cities across India. Descriptive statistical analysis was carried out, and sexual dimorphism was evaluated by Student's t-test between males and females. RESULTS: The results of the present study showed statistically significant (P < 0.05) gender difference in 5 parameters out of 12 parameters in Indian population. CONCLUSION: In the present study, soft-tissue facial measurements were established by means of photogrammetric analysis to facilitate orthodontists to carry out more quantitative evaluation and make disciplined decisions. The mean values obtained can be used for comparison with records of participants with the same characteristics by following this photogrammetric technique.

Effect of bisphosphonates on orthodontic tooth movement-an update.

Bisphosphonates are a synthetic class of pyrophosphate analogues that are powerful inhibitors of bone resorption which are commonly used as a medication for the prevention and therapy of osteoporosis and osteopenia, also used to treat tumor diseases. As it affects bone metabolism, it is said to have an influence on orthodontic treatment and tooth movement. Also, this review gives an insight into the reported effects of Bisphosphonate medication in literature highlighting the status quo of scientific research regarding effects of Bisphosphonates on orthodontic tooth movement. A systematic literature search was done in Medline database (Pubmed) for the appropriate keywords. Manual handsearch was also done. From the available evidence it can be concluded that the duration of orthodontic treatment is increased for patients under Bisphosphonate therapy as they interfere with the osteoclastic resorption. However, they may be beneficial for anchorage procedures. Further long term prospective randomized controlled trials are required to assess possible benefits and adverse effects of bisphosphonate treatment, before Bisphosphonates can be therapeutically used in orthodontics.

Obstructive sleep apnea and its management.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an increasingly common disorder. It is characterized by frequent episodes of airway obstruction associated with a reduced caliber of the upper airway and is vulnerable to further narrowing and collapse. Acute and repetitive effects of apnea and hypopnea include oxygen desaturation, reduction in intrathoracic pressure, excessive daytime sleepiness, impaired executive function and central nervous system arousals. The apnea-hypopnea index and respiratory distress index help quantify the severity of the condition. The condition is associated with several clinical symptoms of which daytime sleepiness is considered the cardinal symptom. Obesity is one of the major predisposing factors. Three types of apneas have been recognized--obstructive, central and mixed; OSA is the commonest. This review will cover aspects of their radiologic features, diagnosis and management.