Comparison of the three-dimensional structures of mandibular condyles between adults with and without facial asymmetry: A retrospective study

OBJECTIVE: This retrospective study compared the three-dimensional (3D) structure of mandibular condyles between adults with and without facial asymmetry, and whether it influences menton deviation. METHODS: Sixty adult patients were classified into symmetry and asymmetry groups based on the menton deviation on postero-anterior radiographs. The right/left differences of 3D measurements were compared between the two groups, and measurements were compared separately on the right and left sides. The correlations between menton deviation and the right/left differences were analyzed. RESULTS: The mediolateral dimension, neck length, condylar angles to the anteroposterior reference (PO) and midsagittal reference planes, and neck and head volumes showed significantly larger right/left differences in the asymmetry group compared to the symmetry group. Separate comparisons of the right and left sides between the two groups showed that the neck was significantly shorter and neck and head volumes were significantly smaller on the left side, which was deviated side in the asymmetry group. Pearson's correlation analysis showed significant positive correlations of menton deviation with right/left differences in neck length, condylar angle to the PO plane, and neck and head volumes in the asymmetry group. CONCLUSIONS: In individuals with facial asymmetry, menton deviation is associated with the right/left differences caused by a smaller condyle on the deviated side, particularly in neck length and neck and head volumes.