Paulinne Junqueira Silva Andresen Strini

Computerized biophotogrammetry evaluation of asymmetry facial in patients with temporomandibular disorders

Introduction: the protocols of evaluation of the asymmetry facial in patients with temporomandibular disorders are, in general, realized by using cephalometric analysis, which provide the visualization, measurement and analysis of the hard tissue only. The facial analysis by computerized biophotogrammetry has been used as an auxiliary manner of diagnostic, not exposing the patient to harmful radiation, promoting the evaluation of craniofacial and muscular structures and fat layer disposition. Aim: evaluate the facial asymmetry in patients with temporomandibular disorders by computerized biophotogrammetry. Material and methods: the sample was 36 patients (31 women and 05 men) and 11 controls (06 women and 05 men) with temporomandibular disorders. For selection and classification of the sample, the Clinical Index of Fonseca (1994) was used, according to physical, dentistry and physiotherapic examination. Results: significant differences (p=0,041) were found between the mouth angle and the right and left sides in patients with temporomandibular disorders. Conclusion: alteration in facial symmetry can be observed in patients with temporomandibular disorders and it is located in lower portion of face, mainly in maxillary, mandibular and menton regions.