Evaluation and establishment of norms for facial index in Kerala population-a cross sectional study

Abstract

The norms for facial index will help in clinical diagnosis and treatment planning in orthodontics. The established norms will assist orthodontist in determining the optimal amount, duration and timing of treatment. The norms will also be of value to maxillofacial and plastic surgeon in their treatment planning for patients from Kerala. Facial pattern indicates the direction of growth of craniofacial complex. Accurate facial analysis such as facial height, facial width and facial index is essential for diagnosis of genetic and acquired anomalies, for the study of normal and abnormal growth and for morphometric investigation. Kerala is a state with varied ethnicity, genetic influence, traditions, nutrition, environment and climate which influence the variation in facial morphology. No reports are available on the studies relating to face and facial dimensions of Kerala population so it is important to establish norms for facial index in Kerala population. The main aim of this study is to evaluate and establish norms for facial index in Kerala population and to find out dominant facial type in Kerala population. And also to find out dominant facial type based on sexual dimorphism.