EvaluatIion of the Y- growth axis (SN.Gn), using lateral cephalometric radiographs in normal occlusion and Class II malocclusion patients

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluated the Y-growth axis (SN. Gn), with lateral cephalometric ra- diographs in normal occlusion and Class II malocclusion patients. The sample consisted of 120 la- teral cephalometric radiographs, being 76 female individuals and 44 males, with ages ranging from 12 to 21 years-old. This sample was divided into two groups: Group 1: Control, normal occlusion, wi- thout orthodontic treatment and Group 2: Class II malocclusion . The radiographs were digitalized and cephalometric analysis was performed with the aid of Ra- diocef software (Radiomemory), demarcating the Y-growth axis (SN.Gn) and determining this, in Group 1. The value was conside- red as a normal pattern for this variable. The same procedure was performed with the individuals in Group 2. The results showed sig- nificant statistical difference, with higher mean values for Class II than for normal occlusion, charac- terizing the vertical mandibular growth (clockwise direction). Key words: malocclusion, cephalo- metry, dental occlusion, bone deve- lopment, cranial base.