L.Bodine Higley

Relationships between dental arch widths and widths of the face and head

Abstract This paper treats three problems: the relationship between maxillary arch width and width of the upper face, the relationship between maxillary arch width and width of the head, and the relationship between mandibular arch width and width of the lower face. Original findings are reported on a sample of North American white children residing in or near Iowa City, Iowa. These findings are integrated with relevant materials from numerous investigations in the dental and anthropologic literature. Of the three relationships brought under study, the composite information is most substantial for maxillary arch width with upper face width. No strong association is found between transverse dimensions of the head or face and widths of the dental arches. It is concluded that none of the relations studied is particularly useful to the clinician in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment.

The length of mandibular basal bone in normal occlusion and Class I malocclusion compared to Class II, Division 1 malocclusion

T HE general purpose of this study is to compare the length of the mandibular basal bone for individuals having normal dentofacial relationships (normals and Class I malocclusions) with that of individuals exhibiting a distal relationship of the mandibular arch to the maxilla (Class II, Division 1, Angle). Orthodontic investigators aild practitioners are fairly well agreed that the abnormality present in Class II, Division 1 malocclusion lies principally in the mandible. It has not been established to what extent (1) the ramus height or tbe basal bone length may be deficient, (2) the gonial angle may be too acute, (3) the condyle may be positioned distally to normal in the glenoid cavity, ,(4) the teeth may be positioned distally on the rnandibular basal bone, or (5) there may be a lack of vertical growth of the temporal bone in which the condylar fossa is located. This investigalion is concerned with the extent to which the observed mandibular retrusion is associated with the anteroposOerior length of the mandibular body. It is for other investigators to establish the significance of the additional factors listed. The literature on this subject reveals many references to the lack of mandibular development found in this class of malocclusion. Apparently, there has been some disagreement as to the specific center of growth which has been upset causing the retrusive position of the mandible. Angle1 evidently considered, from his clinical observations, that it was an over-all lack of growth of the bone. He stated, “The mandible is also distal (in Class II, Division 1) in its relation to’ the maxilla and usually smaller that] normal but quite normal in form.” He did recognize exceptions to this in his last etlition. This quotation is taken from the chapter, “Facial Art” :

The stabilizing plate, an adjunct to orthodontic therapy

Abstract The stabilizing plate, an adjunct to orthodontic mechanical therapy, has been presented. A description of the device, methods of construction, and its clinical usage have been given.

The Council on Dental Education and the American Board of Orthodontics

Abstract 1. 1. Definition .—Dentofacial abnormalities include: 1.1. a. Malocclusion of the teeth. 1.2. b. Facial abnormalities and deformities due to mal-growth and/or malrelation of the jaws. 1.3. c. Clefts of the face, lips, and palate. 2. 2. Prevalence .—Conservative estimates indicate that fully 50 per cent of children and youth have some malocclusion and/or dentofacial abnormality which interferes in some degree with function, facial esthetics, and health of the oral structures. Of the foregoing, 20 per cent suffer markedly because of interference with mastication, health of the oral tissues, and facial appearance. The foregoing are frequently associated with personality adjustment, difficulties due to a feeling of inadequacy and “appearing different.” At the same time, the severity of the mental reaction of the affected child bears no direct relation to the severity of the condition present. 3. 3. Need .—The following should be extended and improved: 3.1. a. Knowledge on prevention. 3.2. b. Number of professional personnel available. 3.3. c. Facilities for prevention and treatment should be extended. 3.4. d. Educational information should be more widely distributed.