Evaluation of Buccolingual Inclinations of First Molars Among Different Vertical Facial Patterns in Class II Division I Subjects

Background Knowing the characteristics of vertical patterns is crucial to provide the best orthodontic treatment. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers a valuable tool for evaluating true buccolingual inclinations. The current study investigates the buccolingual inclination of first molars in adult subjects with different vertical facial patterns. Methods CBCT scans of 66 adult patients (31 males, 35 females) with a mean age of 31.6 years (SD: 6.4 years) exhibiting skeletal class II division I maxillomandibular relationships were employed. Participants were categorized into three groups based on linear and angular measurements: normodivergent group (n=22), hypodivergent group (n=22), and hyperdivergent group (n=22). The independent samples t-test and Mann-Whitney U-test were conducted to investigate statistical differences in terms of buccolingual inclination between the three vertical patterns. Results Statistically significant differences were observed in the buccolingual inclinations of both maxillary and mandibular first molars in the hypodivergent group compared to the other groups (p<0.05). Conclusions In patients with class II division I sagittal relationships, the buccolingual inclinations of the first molars exhibit similarities between normodivergent and hyperdivergent groups. However, these inclinations differ significantly in hypodivergent adult subjects.