[Three-dimensional measurement and facial symmetry analysis for the craniofacial structure of people in North China with normal occlusion].

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the internal regularities and symmetry of craniofacial structures from adults with normal occlusion in North China. METHODS: The study consisted of 60 volunteers who were examined with spiral 3D computed tomography (CT). The axial images of craniofacial structure were reconstructed into 3D models and analyzed by using Proplan 1.2 software to measure the internal regularities and symmetry of craniofacial structures. RESULTS: All the linear measurement's value of the males were bigger than those of the females (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in the ratio measurements between the males and the females(P>0.05). Facial asymmetry was less than 10% in all the images. CONCLUSION: CT is an effective method for three-dimensional analyses of craniofacial structure and symmetry. There are certain and harmonious regularities in normal 3D craniofacial structures. The 3D craniofacial structure database of people with normal occlusion can provide standards and references for diagnosis and treatment planning of craniofacial deformities.