Changes in Upper Airway Anatomy Following Orthodontic Treatment for Malocclusion: A Comparative Retrospective Study in 96 Patients

BACKGROUND: This retrospective study aimed to compare pharyngeal anatomical changes measured in cephalometric images before and after treatment for malocclusion Class I, II, and III in 96 patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. MATERIAL/METHODS: A total of 96 patients who underwent fixed orthodontic treatment were included in the study. The patients were divided into 3 groups according to the malocclusion (32 people in each group). The upper airway data in the lateral cephalometric images of the patients were retrospectively analyzed before starting fixed orthodontic treatment and the upper airway data taken after the end of the fixed orthodontic treatment. RESULTS: According to the findings, all the upper airway data in individuals in Class I (Skeletal Class I malocclusion) group and most of the upper airway data in Class II (Skeletal Class II malocclusion) groups increased after orthodontic treatment compared to before treatment (P<0.05). Most of the upper airway data in Class III (Skeletal Class III malocclusion) group individuals decreased after orthodontic treatment compared to before treatment (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Orthodontic treatment should be chosen considering that an increase may be observed in individuals with Class I and Class II malocclusion. Similarly, in individuals with Class III malocclusion, orthodontic treatment can be chosen considering that there will be a decrease in the upper airways. By determining the effects of fixed orthodontic treatment on the airways, airway problems experienced at an early age can be prevented.