Comparative cephalometric study of three different ethnic groups of black Africa with normal occlusion.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to investigate if there are differences or not between African ethnic groups in order to determine any ethnic and regional differences in the facial morphology. MATERIAL: Lateral cephalograms of 53 young Ivorians, 50 young Senegalese and 62 young Chadians, obtained under the same conditions in each country, were measured. Ten skeletal, eleven dento-skeletal and twelve soft tissue variables were investigated. RESULTS: The comparison of all these parameters (test t student) showed multiple differences between these groups. But, those from Senegal presented with a high degree of protrusion of the upper lip and incisors. Moreover they were strongly hyperdivergent compared to those from Cote d'Ivoire and Chad. The latter showed the least convex soft tissue profile. CONCLUSIONS: There were certain differences in dental, skeletal and soft-tissue facial morphology between the three African populations compared. This study provided a better knowledge of facial morphology in this area of Africa and consequently a better adaptation of the treatment planning of cases requiring orthodontics and orthognathic surgery.