Angular Photogrammetric Analysis for a Young Adult Garhwali Population

Abstract

Abstract Objectives: The aim of this study is to quantify the average parameters that define the soft-tissue facial profile of a young adult Garhwali population of age 18–21 by means of angular measurement on standardized photographs. Materials and Methods: A sample of 50 Garhwali individuals (25 males and 25 females) between 18 and 21 years of age was obtained with a class I dental relationship. The photographic set-up consisted of a tripod that held a digital SLR camera. The photographic records of the subjects were taken in natural head posture. The obtained records were digitized and analyzed using the Digimizer software program. Twelve measurements were digitally analyzed on each photograph. For statistical evaluation, Student’s-t-test was performed and reliability of the method was analyzed. The results were compared with established soft-tissue profile photogrammetric norms. Results: The Student’s t-test was applied to all variables to determine the influence of sex in the measurements. Two of the angles showed sexual differences: nasofrontal (G–N–Prn, P = 0.001) and mentolabial angle (Li–Sm–Pg, P = 0.002). Nasofrontal angle was found wider in the females while mentolabial angle was found be wider in the males. Conclusion: Orthodontist has the ability to alter facial features and must analyze the soft-tissue facial profile and compare it with standard measurements of the soft- tissue facial profile. The sample’s mean values can be compared against records of participants using the same photogrammetric technique and sharing the same attributes. The results showed sexual differences in two of the measurements: the nasofrontal and mentolabial angle.