Photogrammetric Comparison of Facial Soft Tissue Profile before and after Protraction Facemask Therapy in Class III Children (6-11 Years Old)

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM: Achieving a normal soft tissue facial profile is considered to be the main concern of class III patients and the goal of most class III treatments. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of facemask treatment on profile with photogrammetric method. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Before (T0) and after (T1) treatment photograms of 40 class III patients profiles (20 male and 20 female individuals) treated with protraction face mask that met the inclusion criteria were digitized and analyzed using Aesthetic Analyzer software. Selected linear and angular measurements were performed for each patient and the changes were noted. RESULTS: An increase in inferior facial height (p< 0.001) and inferior facial angle (p< 0.001) was observed. Nasal prominence and upper lip prominence also increased significantly (p< 0.001). Advancement of sub nasal area was observed to be significant in females (p< 0.05) in contrast to males. CONCLUSION: Remarkable advancement in the middle face and consequent fullness in the soft-tissue profile can be achieved by using protraction face mask. The response to treatment is not different between males and females.