Dentofacial Asymmetry: A Literature Review
Montian Manosudprasit DDS, MS*, Aggasit Manosudprasit DDS, MS, PhD*, Amornrat Manosudprasit DDS, MS*, Kiratiya Traisrisin DDS*
Affiliation : * Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
In the past, mild facial asymmetry was neglected because it was believed that normal craniofacial characteristic had some slight asymmetry. However, in recent times, the patients complain and concern increasingly even about minimal asymmetry. In addition, significant facial asymmetry results not only in functional, but also esthetic issues. Therefore, its etiology should be carefully investigated in order to achieve an adequate treatment plan. An assessment of dentofacial asymmetry consists of patient’s interview, extra- and intraoral clinical examination, supplementary extra- and intraoral imaging examination, and radiographic evaluation. Subsequent treatments for the asymmetry depends on patient’s age, etiology of the condition and on the degree of discrepancies, and may be based on asymmetrical orthodontic mechanics to orthognathic surgery. This present study aimed to provide an overview; etiology, diagnosis and management of dentofacial asymmetry for the orthodontist to achieve an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan of facial asymmetry.
Keywords : Dentofacial Asymmetry, Functional Appliances, Growth Modification, Orthognathic Surgery
