Oropharyngeal complex differences related to sex and occlusal factors in adolescents aged 12–17 years

Abstract

Objective: To investigate oropharyngeal complex differences related to sex and occlusal factors in adolescents. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 108 patients aged 12–17 years. The oropharyngeal complex was evaluated by imaging exams. Occlusal variables included molar relationship, facial growth pattern, maxilla shape, tooth loss, anterior crossbite, and anterior open bite. Statistical analysis included independent t-test, Mann-Whitney, ANOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis tests. The significance level was 5%. Results: There were increases of the tongue measurement (p = 0.026) and the hyoid approach at the base of the mandible among boys (p = 0.016) and the distance from the hyoid at the base of the mandible among girls (p = 0.039). There was shortening of the soft palate measurements (p = 0.003 and p = 0.007) and tongue (p = 0.018) among adolescents with an anterior crossbite. Conclusion: Findings suggest sex, age, and anterior crossbite can be related to oropharyngeal morphology.