Three-dimensional morphological characterization of malocclusions with mandibular lateral displacement using cone-beam computed tomography

AbstractObjective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the morphologic characteristics of MLD malocclusions using 3D imaging.Materials and methods: MLD characteristics were examined using CBCT data in 40 subjects. A 3D Cephalometric analysis was developed to describe the spatial position of the mandible and temporal bones.Results: Vertical dental heights were shorter and the posterior occlusal plane (POP) presented a steeper sagittal inclination on the shifted side (the side of the laterally displaced bony chin) than on the contralateral side. (p < 0.01). The MLD was related to a superiorly inclined POP Cant in the same direction (r = 0.82; p < 0.01). The shifted side condyle was dislocated medially and was smaller. Temporal bone sagittal inclination showed a more forward and medial inclination on the contralateral side (p < 0.01).Conclusions: A unilateral decrease in the vertical height of the dentition and the subsequent steeper occlusal plane inclinations correlated with (1) mandibular rotational...