Evaluation of Condylar Volume and Surface Area of Skeletal Class I Subjects with and without Anterior Open Bite - A Cross-Sectional CBCT Study

Abstract

Introduction: As the mandibular condyle plays a crucial role in the development of the cranio-facial complex, evaluation of the condylar volume and surface area is important for a comprehensive understanding about cranio-facial development. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the condylar volume and surface area in subjects having skeletal Class I with anterior open bite using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT).

Objectives: the aim of this study was to evaluate and compare mandibular condylar volume and surface area in subjects with skeletal Class I and skeletal Class I with an anterior open bite using CBCT imaging techniques.

Methods: Thirty-eight CBCT scans were obtained, including 19 subjects with skeletal Class I malocclusion and 19 subjects with skeletal Class I malocclusion and anterior open bite. Selection criteria were based on the ANB angle, N-ANS linear measurement, and mandibular plane angle. The TMJ on both the right and left sides of each subject was evaluated independently using CBCT scans. Evaluation parameters included condylar volume and condylar surface area, analyzed using 3D Slicer 5.2.1 software. Parametric tests were employed to compare condylar volume and surface area between the two groups.

Results: Subjects with skeletal Class I malocclusion exhibited significantly higher condylar volume and surface area compared to those with skeletal Class I malocclusion and anterior open bite. Males within both groups demonstrated significantly higher right condylar volume compared to females. In skeletal Class I malocclusion with anterior open bite, males showed significantly higher left condylar volume and surface area compared to females.

Conclusions: Individuals with skeletal Class I malocclusion displayed greater condylar volume and surface area compared to those with skeletal Class I malocclusion and anterior open bite. Males generally exhibited higher condylar volume and surface area than females, particularly in specific conditions like skeletal Class I malocclusion with anterior open bite.