Effects of Early Unilateral Mandibular First Molar Extraction on Condylar and Ramal Asymmetry

Abstract

SUMMARY: Craniofacial symmetry is an important factor in creating a harmonious facial appearance. Genetic and external factors may cause the formation of mandibular asymmetry. The aim of this study was to evaluate vertical mandibular asymmetries in adolescents who had unilateral mandibular first permanent molar (FPM) teeth extracted at an early age. The study group consisted of 60 subjects (30 females, 30 males with a mean age of 16.18±1.04 years) who had their mandibular permanent first molar tooth extracted before the age of 12, and the control group consisted of 60 healthy subjects (30 females, 30 males with a mean age of 16.23±0.92 years). Condylar asymmetry index (CAI), ramal asymmetry index (RAI), and condylar-ramal asymmetry index (CRAI) were calculated using panoramic radiographs of the subjects. Independent samples t-test was used to evaluate the differences between groups. CAI, RAI, and CRAI values were similar between male and female subjects in both control and study groups, and no statistically significant difference was found (p>0.05). No statistically significant difference was observed between the group who had their mandibular first permanent molar teeth extracted at an early age and the control group (p>0.05). CAI values were relatively higher in both groups, but there was no significant difference between the CAI, RAI, and CRAI values between the groups.