3D Evaluation of Pharyngeal Airway in Individuals

Since long Orthodontists have been interested in the association between mode of breathing and craniofacial growth. The pharyngeal structure plays an essential role in breathing and swallowing. Respiration through upper airway is a vital functional process impacting craniofacial development. The knowledge of the pharyngeal dimensions amongst various sagittal &vertical facial types is clinically relevant for orthodontists so as to establish a proper orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. The study was done on the Indian population to evaluate the volume of pharyngeal airway among individuals with different growth patterns and was divided into three groups on the basis of the SN mandibular plane angle that is horizontal grower, vertical grower and average growers. The pharyngeal airway volume was calculated with the help of CBCT software.