Common Patterns of Developmental Dentofacial Deformities: A Biologic Classification System

Abstract

Jaw disharmonies that are recognized after birth and that present in association with the pre-pubertal growth spurt are called developmental dentofacial deformities. These deformities occur during the normal growth phase of the face with degrees of either excess or deficiency in one or more vectors of the jaws. Clinical observation combined with radiographic analysis confirms that developmental dentofacial deformities tend to occur in 6 distinct and repetitive biologic patterns. Once the individual’s jaw growth pattern is known, the natural progression of their deformity, the functional consequences on speech articulation, chewing ability, swallowing mechanism, and breathing, and the locations of skeletal dysmorphology that require surgical intervention fall into place. The purpose of the manuscript is to review the 6 common patterns.

Facial deformity correction and genioplasty; a case report and literature review

“…This case was about simultaneously conducting the genioplasty and BiMax procedures to correct dentofacial deformities in an 18-year-old female. Facial deformities occur during the normal embryonic phase and develop clearly when the patient reaches puberty due to a growth spurt [ 5 ]. The previous paper has classified the deformities into 6 significant patterns, including asymmetric mandibular excess growth patterns, which is one of the common patterns.…”

Orthognathic Surgery: Past – Present – Future

“…This is important, as roughly 5% of humans will become teenagers with a significant jaw deformity, often with associated negative effects on speech, chewing, swallowing, breathing, and self-esteem. 3 Yet, even in North America, less than 1 in 20 undergo the surgical correction that they need.…”

Evolution of the Human Craniofacial Skeleton, Frequency of Dentofacial Deformities, and Implications for Treatment

“…3 The resulting common patterns of developmental DFDs seen in humans tend to limit the ability of the lips, tongue, hard and soft palate, pharyngeal walls, and the teeth in each jaw to adequately approximate with each other to achieve normal speech articulation, safe swallowing mechanics, and chewing ability. 4 When the maxilla is hypoplastic, the intranasal structures that compose the internal nasal valve (ie, septum, inferior turbinates, nasal floor, pyriform walls) are expected to be negatively impacted. The resulting increased intranasal airway resistance restricts airflow causing chronic obstructive nasal breathing and may prevent adequate sinus drainage resulting in chronic sinusitis.…”