Assessment and Comparison of Facial Asymmetry by Photograph and Radiographic Methods

Introduction: An identical craniofacial complex must have symmetrical structures on right and left side. However, asymmetries are quite common and have been a matter of concern for orthodontic therapy. Asymmetries of face are often associated with dental asymmetries which are of clinical importance for treatment of malocclusion.

Aim: This present study was conducted to assess and Compare facial asymmetry of Deccan population by using photographic and radiographic Methods.

Methods: Hundred college students of Deccan population between age group of 15-30 years of age with harmonious and symmetrical face were selected for study. Radiographs were taken using Cephalostat (Kodak 8000 & Kodak 8000C system manufactured by care stream health Inc., USA). Exposure was standardized for subjects were 85Kvp; 12 mA for 0.1 second exposure time with magnification factor of 1.27% (±10) Photographs were taken with Single Lens Reflex (SLR) digital camera (Nikon D3200; Nikon Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) and a macro lens (Macro-Nikkon 105mm; Nikon Corporation). Facial asymmetry was evaluated by using three cephalometric analysis (Grummon’s, Rickett’s and Hewitt’s) and a photographic analysis. Paired t test was used for comparison of asymmetry on left and right sides. A p-value of 0.05 or less was considered statistically significant.

Results: In Grummons analysis, left side was more in size than right but not statistically significant in all measurements except distance between the Mid Facial Line to Condylion point (MFL-Co). In Hewitts analysis, results indicated that total facial area was more on left than right. However, cranial base region, Middle Maxillary region, Lower Maxillary Region and dental region indicated that right side was more in area than left side but not statistically significant. In Ricketts Analysis, result have shown that maxillary width and mandibular width were more on right when compared to left but not statistically significant. In photographic analysis left hemi face was greater in size than right. Total facial structures in Deccan population was found larger on left side when compared to right, was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: Normal pleasing and symmetrical faces do exhibit some skeletal asymmetry. Asymmetry of face might be present even when teeth are in excellent occlusal position.