Upon finalizing the methodological aspect of the current study, accompanied by the literature review that had been conducted previously, it can be stated that the study was capable of achieving the research objective by evaluating the state of facial asymmetry as it correlates to Class I, II, and III skeletal relations in a sample of adult patient. Firstly, it is concluded that patients' gender did not contribute in any way, shape, or form in the emergence of any discrepancies between Class I, II, and III malocclusion, and that sex, including male or female, did not dictate the manner through which facial landmarks are distributed on their faces nor did it induce any asymmetries or skeletal defects when they were subject to, photographing, examination, and analysis.
The presentation of Class I, II, or III malocclusion is not influenced by whether someone is male or female. Both men and women are equally likely to have these conditions, since the underlying reasons are not inherently connected to biological differences between the sexes. Orthodontic studies and clinical proof support the understanding that gender does not have a role in the development or manifestation of malocclusion classes. As a result, gender should not be thought of as a factor in the diagnosis or treatment planning of malocclusions. Recognizing that gender is not associated with these dental misalignments is vital for healthcare providers to avoid biases in care and to promote a thorough understanding of malocclusion causes.
Secondly, it is also concluded that soft tissues, in accordance with the previously measured facial landmarks and midpoint parameters, can mask the levels of malocclusion and hide any defects that would be obvious characteristics of Class I, II, or II skeletal malocclusion for patients. This is because the thickness and location of these soft tissues, around the nose, lips, and chin area, can often serve as natural cover-ups for the usual biological determinants and skeletal indicators for the prevalence of Class I, II, or II skeletal malocclusion for patients. The soft tissues of the face, including the lips, cheeks, and facial muscles, have a major impact on how malocclusions are perceived and diagnosed. They can significantly alter the look of Class I, II, and III malocclusions, often concealing underlying dental and skeletal defects. These soft tissues form a dynamic system that can compensate for or minimize the appearance of malocclusions through camouflage effects.
This can influence orthodontic treatment planning, as the orthodontist must take into account not just dental alignment but also the patient's soft tissue profile when deciding on interventions. Grasping the interplay between the hard and soft tissues is vital for achieving the best possible aesthetic and functional results from orthodontic treatment.For instance, Class I skeletal malocclusion involves normal positioning of the molars but misalignment or spacing problems with individual teeth. While the skeletal relationship between the upper and lower jaws is usually normal, the dental crowding or irregularities can be significant. However, characteristics of the lips, especially, can hide these issues. For example, fuller lips that stick out slightly can cover the front teeth, minimizing the appearance of crowding or spaces. Also, the flexibility and adaptability of the cheek muscles can adapt to minor irregularities in tooth position that might be more visible with less pliable soft tissue.
The lower face muscles can often disguise the seriousness of a Class II malocclusion. Strong jaw and chin muscles may make up for a small jaw, giving a more balanced side view of the face. Also, the position of the lips can adjust to differences in the teeth and bones. The lower lip sometimes turns up to meet the upper lip, making the front teeth seem less protruded. Sometimes, the way the face moves when speaking and smiling can also distract from the bite issues. In some cases, the soft tissues when talking and smiling can draw attention away from the inconsistent bite.
Moreover, individuals with Class III malocclusion have a lower jaw positioned in front of the upper jaw. This can lead to a protruding chin. However, the soft tissues of the face can significantly change the appearance of the profile. Someone with thicker soft tissue and fuller lips may have a less obvious protruding chin, giving a softer facial profile. Even if the upper lip is further back than the lower lip due to the jaw discrepancy, there can still be a balanced look if there is ample, evenly distributed soft tissue. Facial expressions are adaptable as well, with the soft tissues moving during different expressions to hide some of the malocclusion and make it seem less severe.
Additionally, regarding the PN point, it can be concluded that patients who suffer from Class I , Class II and Class III had a wider right hemiface, and that patients who suffer from Class II and Class III had a wider right hemifaceregarding both the LS and ME points respectively. Generally speaking, 56%, 52%, and 52% of the subjects had a wider right hemiface regarding the PN, LS, and ME points respectively.This was confirmed by [15] who indicated that, through analyzing a sample of patients who suffered from Class I and Class II skeletal malocclusion had a wider right-side hemiface than the left side. However, Class II patients had the same problem of a wider right-side hemiface due to asymmetries caused by menton (ME) deviation. [16] also concluded that Class I and Class II both had facial asymmetry that was characterized by a wider right-side hemiface, with a laterality of facial asymmetry that was seen on the left side in both Classes.
Similarly, [17]confirmed this notion by concluding that the right-side hemiface grows wider than its left counterpart for patients who suffer from Class I, II, and III skeletal malfunction. However, the authors indicated that such deviation that causes facial asymmetry can be attributed to postnatal factors such as more use of a habitually preferred chewing side.Another study conducted by [18] also concluded that there was a common, albeit mild, prevalence of skeletal asymmetry. Although soft tissue compensation appears to mask the skeletal discrepancy in an attempt to maintain aesthetic proportions, it is imperfect. The hard tissue deviation favors the left side, while the soft tissue overcompensates on the right side.
It should be noted as well, that the dominance of the right-side hemiface did not have any correlation with the patients' sex and also did not cohere with nor was it attributed to any skeletal jaw relationships.Chi-square tests for patients who suffer from Class I, Class II, and Class III 6.60 for the PN point, 0.677 for the SL point, and 0.677 for the ME point.Therefore, it can be concluded that though Class I, II, and III malocclusions may have distinct skeletal differences, the appearance of the soft tissues can obscure the distinctions, creating a seemingly uniform image. This misleading facade highlights the need for professional dental assessment, since depending solely on visual hints can result in misdiagnosis and lost chances for early treatment. Keep in mind, the real nature of malocclusion frequently lies below the exterior, waiting to be uncovered through thorough evaluation and expert interpretation.
While Class I malocclusions technically have misaligned jaws, they often look surprisingly normal. The teeth may be crowded or tilted, but the overall facial profile and bite can appear balanced. Features like full lips and rounded cheeks cleverly hide the underlying skeletal problem, creating an illusion of harmony.Slight protrusion of the upper lip, a flattened chin, or a sunken profile might hint at the jaw misalignment. However, even then, the masking ability of soft tissues can still be remarkable, potentially obscuring the full extent of the skeletal issue. The lower jaw sticking out is often obvious, causing a characteristic "under-bite." Yet even then, the soft tissues can work their magic. An especially full lower lip or rounded chin can lessen the severity of the profile, making the skeletal imbalance less noticeable.
Having said that, further research is required to be conducted about the acquired injuries that play a role in the state of facial asymmetry and skeletal disruption; which could lead to cases of Class I, II, and III malocclusion, for adult patients and children alike. Moreover, other demographic and genetic variables must also be addressed; in order to examine their correlation with the emergence of Class I, II, and III skeletal relations.Additionally, grasping the underlying reasons for right-side facial asymmetry in malocclusion has important clinical consequences. Unpacking the complex interplay of contributing elements could enable customized treatment approaches. By identifying the particular processes causing the asymmetry for each patient and taking into account their malocclusion type, dentists could tailor interventions to accomplish a more balanced and successful result. This could address not just the functional issues of malocclusion but also the possible aesthetic and psychological effects of facial asymmetry.
As such, investigating the underlying reasons for right-side facial dominance in malocclusion patients is more than just an academic exercise. It's a mission to uncover the mysteries behind facial asymmetry, opening the door for enhanced diagnosis, therapy, and most importantly, a more symmetrical and self-assured smile for people with malocclusion. The path ahead for research welcomes us to examine the concealed complexities of thisfascinating occurrence and reconstruct the story of facial asymmetry, one methodical finding at a time.