Comparison of Computer Predicted Mandibular Growth with Documented Growth

Objectives: This study has evaluated the reliability of Dentofacial Planner Plus mandibular growth prediction feature and compared it to documented growth. Methods: Twenty seven patients (13 male, 14 female) with ages ranging from 8 to 12 years were selected. On the initial evaluation, all had cephalometric and wrist radiographs, as well as a reevaluation headplate 1 to 4 years after the initial. Initial(1) and computer generated growth prediction(2) tracings were obtained from the first radiograph. The reevaluation headplate generated a reevaluation tracing(3). To compare the growth prediction(2) to the reevaluation(3) tracing, SNB, SN.GoGn, Y Axis and Co-Gn measures were selcted. The results were submited to Studentxs t test and Pearsonxs correlation. Results: Studentxs t test showed significant diferences (p<0.05) between the cefalometric measurements selected, except for SN.GoGn. Measurements for SNB and SN.GoGn showed strong correlation (0.871 and 0.848 respectevely). Conclusions: The results have shown a tendency to overestimate mandibular growth.