ORTHODONTIC ROLE OF DENTOALVEOLAR HEIGHTS IN CRANIOFACIAL GROWTH

Sorana Maria Bucur, Eugen Silviu Bud, Mariana Păcurar

ABSTRACT

Aim of the study: Vertical craniofacial development results from complex interactions between skeletal growth and dentoalveolar adaptation. The contribution of dentoalveolar heights to facial height development, particularly in untreated malocclusion, remains insufficiently elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the orthodontic significance of dentoalveolar heights in relation to anterior and posterior facial height development in untreated Class I and Class II subjects across distinct developmental stages. Materials and methods: A retrospective mixed-longitudinal study was conducted using 408 lateral cephalograms from 86 untreated subjects aged 6–18 years. The sample included 47 Class I and 39 Class II subjects. Cephalometric measurements included anterior facial height, posterior facial height, and dentoalveolar heights of incisors and molars. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to assess predictive relationships. Results: Both malocclusion groups demonstrated progressive increases in facial and dentoalveolar heights with growth. In Class I subjects, upper molar vertical position showed strong predictive value for both anterior and posterior facial heights across developmental phases (R² up to 0.84). In Class II subjects, dentoalveolar variables demonstrated weaker and less consistent associations, with upper incisor height showing significant predictive value primarily for posterior facial height in later developmental stages. Conclusions: Dentoalveolar heights play a significant role in vertical craniofacial development, particularly in Class I individuals. The vertical position of the upper molar represents a key orthodontic determinant of facial height growth, whereas Class II malocclusion demonstrates greater variability and reduced dentoalveolar influence.

DOI: 10.62610/RJOR.2025.1.18.14